Formerly, I used to hear that sugar (especially soda or carbonated drinks) increases menstrual cramps but because I didn't know the reason behind that, I assumed that it was a mere assumption.
Recently, I learned something about soda and menstruation that I have decided to share with us. Perhaps it would be of help to someone...
Normally, every 28 days (usually in normal cycles) women experience vagina bleeding called menstruation that lasts a few days. This occurs as a result of shedding off of the outermost layer of the uterus called the endometrium. During this period, ladies generally experience some kind of cramping sensation in the lower abdomen called menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea). Although this is natural, as the contraction of the uterus during this period can cause pain. Most times what we eat or drink affects the severity of menstrual cramps. Most ladies including me enjoy drinking soda and some other sugary drinks.
I don't blame us because it's so refreshing! Especially on a sunny day.
Studies have revealed that excess intake of sugary beverages, tea, meat junk food is associated with severe menstrual cramps.
Sodas are sugary and carbonated drinks that do not contain alcohol. The likes of coke, fanta-orange in our location. Though we enjoy the refreshing taste of sodas, we need to be careful with the way we consume them especially when menstruation is on the corner!
During menstruation, the body releases prostaglandins which help in the contraction of the uterus, facilitating the shedding off of the endometrium (innermost layer of the uterus) as menstrual blood. This chemical released by the body causes pain during the contraction of the uterus.
On the other hand, sugary drinks (soda) are known to promote inflammation by causing the release of prostaglandin. They cause an increase in the level of prostaglandin in the blood during menstruation. This makes the uterus contract more forcefully, leading to severe pain. Imagine adding more prostaglandin to the already existing amount that is causing pain.
This would result in severe cramps!
After discovering this, I have tried as much as possible to avoid excessive consumption of soda(sugary drinks) to prevent excessive menstrual cramps and it is working for me...Maybe you should try it. Perhaps, it might help you.
I know that some of us already know about this and are keeping to the rule. How is your experience so far?