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Drinking warm water is great for a number of reasons, especially for women who are menstruating. Warm water helps to relieve menstrual cramps, reduce bloating, improve digestion, and relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
This article explores how consuming warm water is beneficial during periods.
What Are the Benefits of Drinking Warm Water During Periods?
When it comes to periods, there are a lot of old wives’ tales about what you should and shouldn’t do. But one thing that experts can agree on is that drinking warm water can be helpful in relieving some uncomfortable symptoms during this time of the month.
In fact, research has proven several benefits of drinking warm water during periods:
1. Reduces menstrual bleeding and pain intensity
Warm water can help relax the muscles in your uterus, which can reduce cramping as it renders a warming effect and helps blood flow throughout your body. (1)
The findings suggest that water intake is beneficial in reducing menstrual bleeding duration, pain killer utilization, and pain intensity during menstrual period. (2)
Another cross-sectional study among Indian girls found that those who were in the habit of consuming warm water experienced improvement and relief from menstrual cramps. (3)
2. Eases bloating and abdominal cramping
Warm water can help ease cramps and bloating and relieve constipation, headaches, and other period discomforts. This is because the heat helps to relax the muscles and improve circulation.
And because it can also help with digestion, drinking warm water can also relieve bloating. So next time you’re feeling crampy or bloated during your period, reach for a glass of warm water instead of a cold one. Your body will thank you! (1)
Additionally, drinking warm water is thought to help improve blood circulation and reduce bloating.
Warm water can also help to keep you hydrated, which is important during this time of the month when you may be losing a lot of fluids. Ensuring proper water intake may also reduce constipation. (4)
3. Reduces fatigue
Warm water can help to reduce fatigue as it improves circulation and increases blood flow to the uterus, which can help to reduce menstrual bleeding. Additionally, drinking warm water can help to flush out toxins from the body and improve digestion, thus making you feel less fatigued. (2)(3)
4. May regulate your menstrual cycle
In addition to pain relief, drinking warm water during periods can help to regulate your menstrual cycle. This is because drinking warm water helps to stimulate blood flow and promote healthy circulation. This can help to regulate your hormones and keep your menstrual cycle on track. (2)(5)
It is commonly believed that drinking warm water during periods can help to improve health in a number of ways.
What Is the Best Way to Drink Warm Water During Periods?
Drinking warm water can help to regulate your body temperature, which can be helpful if you tend to feel cold during your period. Here are a few different ways to drink warm water during periods:
- Warm water with lemon: This classic combo can help to ease cramps and bloating. Simply mix warm water and freshly squeezed lemon juice. (3)
- Ginger tea: Ginger has long been used as a natural remedy for nausea and stomach discomfort. Steep ginger root in boiling water to make tea, and sweeten it with honey if desired. (6)
- Herbal tea: Chamomile, lavender, caraway seeds, and peppermint are all great herbs to drink during your period. They have calming properties that can help to ease cramps and tension. Simply brew a cup of herbal tea using any or all of these herbs. (7)
- Soup: A warm bowl of soup can be very comforting during your period. Opt for a soup that is high in protein and low in fat, such as moringa soup, chicken noodle soup, or lentil soup. (8)
Whichever way you choose to drink warm water, make sure that the water is not too hot, as this can actually make cramps worse. Aim for a comfortable temperature that won’t scald or burn you.
Most-Asked Questions
Hot water makes me feel nauseous during my period. Is there any alternative?
You can include warm drinks such as tea, soups, or other warm liquid foods such as dals. Since they are warm fluids, they will have equal benefits for you.
Can hot water increase period flow?
There is no research to prove that hot or warm water increases period flow. In fact, warm water may help ease several symptoms associated with painful periods such as cramping and bloating.
Final Word
Half the population deals with periods for a good part of their lives, and a lot of women suffer from premenstrual syndrome. Simple remedies such as drinking warm water or warm fluids can greatly help in reducing period-related symptoms such as stomach disturbances and cramps.
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