A lot of us like to eat (and eat and eat) while we’re on our periods. It’s an indulgence we allow ourselves during that special time of the month that our guts are being twisted inside out and our hormones are raging — and it turns out if we decide to binge on the right foods, we might actually be doing our bodies (and our minds) a solid favor.

Most of us who have periods are all-too-familiar with that special brand of rage and all of the other nasty symptoms (like cramps) that come along with having a cycle. We can try to tame things with some slow, deep breaths and gentle exercise — but health experts insist that you can totally change your premenstrual experience by making some adjustments to what you eat.

When it comes down to it, the best way to prepare your body for its monthly visitor is to maintain a healthy, well-balanced diet. Easier said than done, right?! Try integrating some of these period-friendly foods into your nutrition plan for a less painful time of the month.

Next time you have a particularly bad period, try these five nourishing foods that can balance your body and help you feel a whole lot better.

• Leafy Greens- Leafy greens (think spinach or lettuce) can benefit your body several ways during that time of the month. Not only are they rich in iron and B vitamins; their high fibre count also can help with digestive issues often associated with your menstrual cycle.
• Nuts- Instead of reaching for that bag of chips or brownies come snack time, reach for a bag of nuts. Foods that are rich in good fats or omega-3s (such as nuts) can be helpful and much more filling than the calories in junk foods.
• Go Fruity: Try and stock up on your favourite fruits before your flow begins to ensure a healthy digestive system.
• Whole Grains: Just like fruit, the fibre in whole grains can help you stay regular, especially during your period. Whole grains also include complex carbohydrates, which provide important vitamins and minerals.
• Proteins: Try and include more proteins in your diet and, if possible, some red meats. It’s important to increase your iron intake during your period to make up for what’s lost each month. A diet high in iron helps avoid anaemia and symptoms that can go along with it.

Like we always say, try and avoid junk foods and fatty foods as much as you can. Many women have the urge to snack on junk food and empty calories. This ends up not being nutritionally filling, and can lead to an uncomfortable, bloated feeling. Steer clear of foods and beverages with high sodium content. They contribute to bloating as well.

So the next time you ever feel like you’re becoming a rage queen, just snack on the above-mentioned foods and see your anger fade into nothingness…