Post-Holiday Blues and Your Period: Why Balance Matters

So, you've gotten through one major holiday this November - GOOD ON YOU! The holiday season is often regarded as a time of indulgence and joy, but for many the holidays can take a toll on the body. Rich foods, irregular sleep patterns, and increased stress can all contribute to hormonal fluctuations, which can, in turn, affect the menstrual cycle.

After the festive celebrations, many people with periods notice changes in the menstrual phase (period) of their menstrual cycle, including a delay in menstrual periods, increased or more severe cramping, heavier (yes! heavier) periods, or even delayed periods. Hormonal imbalances, stress, and dietary changes are a couple of reasons these shifts can occur.  

Incorporating habits such as implementing nutrient-rich foods, e.g., leafy green vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into one's diet and increasing hydration with "clean" or low and sugar-free drinks can also help. Sleep is also important. Ensuring adequate sleep that includes optimal sleep hygiene may help:

• Placing phone on silent an hour before sleep
• Turning the television off an hour before sleep
• and, creating a sleep inducing environment (low or no lighting and ambient room temperature) 

By integrating these tips into a daily and nightly routine, period induced symptoms may improve. Remember, it's important to practice self-care and listen to what our bodies tell us, especially during period time. It is always advisable to follow-up with a licensed medical provider if there are severe or unusual menstrual symptoms to rule out any underlying health concerns. By understanding the connection between post-holiday indulgences and menstrual health, a proactive approach to support overall well-being before things get of hand may be the "gift" that many of us didn't know we needed.