Heat-inducing food tend to influence menstrual flow. It can cause heavier or more frequent periods. The foods have an ability to increase blood flow in the body and uterine contractions. The diet we consume tend to have an effect on our body. While on periods, it can sometimes get difficult to carry out day to day activities such as going to work, going for gym sessions or going out with friends. It is very important to start eating consciously while on periods. There are two scenarios in which you should eat accordingly. In some instances, if the blood flow is less or irregular, one might want to increase it. While on the other hands, if the blood flow is more, one might dial down on eating heat inducing foods.
Papaya- A heat inducing fruit
Considered as ‘ushna’ or heat-inducing, Papaya is a traditional medicine owing to its natural properties that increase internal heat, stimulate metabolism and also influence hormonal activity. This effect of papaya can be beneficial or problematic depending on the individual’s health condition and stage of life.
When ripe, Papaya is rich in Vitamin A, C and E. The vitamins maintain estrogen balance in the body. The enzymes present in the fruit helps relieve cramps.
Why is papaya considered as heat inducing?
1 resence of Papain Enzyme
There is a compound/enzyme called as Papain which is a powerful enzyme in raw papaya which stimulates digestion and increases metabolic fire in the body. This activity creates internal heat in the body.
2 Ushna Virya
Papaya increases pItta dosha or Ushna Virya. It can aggravate heat related-conditions such as skin rashes, inflammation and acidity. It also aids digestion and promotes heat.
3 Stimulates menstrual flow
Papaya can stimulate menstrual flow and many women with delayed periods are advised to eat raw papaya.
Can one eat papaya during periods?
Every women is concerned of her menstrual health and has questions about what she should eat or not eat. There is a lot of stigma surrounding the consumption of Papaya during periods. The fruit is enriched with enzymes and vitamins. However, the most asked question is- ‘Can I eat papaya during period?’ The answer is Yes! Papaya is one of those foods that might actually make one feel better during periods. It is a natural remedy for many menstrual concerns. The nutrients present in the fruit helps one during periods. It also addresses other issues such as bloating, irregular cycles and abdomen cramps.
1. Minerals
It is very important to eat potassium and magnesium rich foods during period as these minerals help relieve menstrual cramps such as bloating, fatigue and mood swings. Moreover, they play a critical role in fluid balance, water retention and nerve function.
What are the benefits of Magnesium and Potassium?
· The minerals relieve menstrual cramps.
Magnesium helps relax uterine muscles. This in turn reduces the painful contractions.
· The minerals also lowers the production of prostaglandins that trigger inflammation and pain.
· The mineral also supports the production of serotonin which is a feel good hormone.
· Potassium prevents water retention and reduces bloating.
2. Papain Enzyme
The fruit contains papain which is a powerful enzyme that aids in digestion. It also reduces bloating and constipation.
The enzyme has anti-inflammatory properties that help relax the uterine muscles.
How does Papaya support menstrual health?
Papaya has been recognized in traditional medicine for its ability to support menstrual health. It helps ease cramps, support hormonal balance and ease cramps. A raw papaya contain Papain which
· Promotes muscle activity in the uterus.
· Induces delayed periods.
· Stimulates uterine contractions.
Papaya also improves blood flow to the pelvic region leading to smooth menstruation.
The enzyme also improves gut health which supports liver function and hormonal metabolism.
The fruit contains iron. It is helpful for women who experience heavy bleeding. The anti-oxidants reduce oxidative stress. This helps regulate hormonal balance.
3. Improves uterine health
Raw papaya supports uterine health. The enzymes present in raw papaya promotes mild contractions of uterine muscles and this helps women with delayed or irregular periods. The fruit also increases blood circulation which helps in the natural shedding of the uterine lining. It ensures a smooth flow.
4. Reduces menstrual discomfort
Papaya is rich in minerals, vitamins and enzymes that work together and alleviate all the common symptoms of period such as fatigue, cramps and bloating.
Moreover, it provides natural energy which is needed during menstruation.
Why should one eat Papaya during periods?
Owing to its high digestive and anti-inflammatory properties, papaya can be safely consumed during periods. It has been proven by scientific studies that papaya help regulate periods and reduce pain from cramps.
The enzymes present in the fruit stimulate uterine contractions. This makes it a natural remedy to ease discomfort caused by irregular or delayed periods. By consuming papaya, you are not just eating a fruit, you are giving your body minerals and nutrients needed to tackle menstruation effectively
FAQs
1. How much time will it take to get periods after eating papaya?
The time it takes to get your period after eating the fruit depends on your hormone levels, your body type etc. If your period is delayed for more than a week, one should eat papaya for 2-3 days to help trigger menstruation.
2. What are the key nutrients in Papaya?
Following are the key nutrients in Papaya-
Vitamin A, C and E.
Vitamin A- It helps regulate the reproductive health and supports immunity. There is a high likelihood of dropping immunity during periods. However, the presence of vitamin A avoids this.
Vitamin C- It acts as an anti-inflammatory agent and it reduces swelling and pain during menstruation. The vitamin also boosts iron absorption. If the bleeding is heavier, one’s iron levels may drop. Vitamin C boosts iron absorption.
Vitamin E- This vitamin works at the forefront to regulate hormone fluctuation and also eases period discomfort.
3. How can papaya support muscle contractions?
Papaya helps promote blood circulation in the body in and around pelvic region. This helps the uterus contract more efficiently.
4. What are the ways to consume papaya?
You can eat fresh papaya slice or make juices and smoothies.
5. Why should you avoid overconsumption of papaya?
If you overeat the fruits, it can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea. Hence, you should avoid the overconsumption.