Hormonal imbalance, thyroid disorders, reproductive disorders like PCOS, PID, and uterine disorders are some of the leading causes of irregular periods in women. Furthermore, certain medications such as birth control pills also may cause irregularity in the menstrual cycle. The good news is that certain health supplements for women are available in the market like magnesium, zinc and vitamins to regulate the menstrual cycle, that you can take after consulting with your gynaecologist.
What are health supplements?
While a healthy diet is ideal, supplements can help provide the nutrients deficient in your normal meal. Health supplements are products made to support the diet by providing nutrients or other substances. They come in various forms like tablets, capsules, gummies, powders, and liquids. Supplements are generally made to meet specific health goals. For example, they help support healthy weight loss or gain, build muscles, improve immunity, regulate periods and so on. Vitamins, minerals, herbs and botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, probiotics etc. are the common types of supplements found in the market. It is important to note that supplements should only be taken after a consultation with a certified health professional and there should be no abuse of it.
How are supplements different from medicines?
Supplements and medicines are often confusing, but they serve different purposes and are under different regulation. Supplements are primarily used to aid a diet, providing nutrients or other substances. They are less stringent than medicines. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring product safety and the accuracy of labels. Also, they are not as rigorously tested as medicines. Generally, they have milder side effects than medicines, but can still occur in some people.
Whereas, medicines are used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent diseases. They are strictly under government regulation agencies like the FDA and must undergo rigorous testing before approval. Their effectiveness is generally proven through clinical trials. Also, they are more likely to have side effects due to their potent nature.
We can also say, supplements are recommendable for general well-being, while medicines target specific health conditions. Furthermore, medicines have stricter regulations for safety and efficacy. Also, medicines are generally more potent than supplements.
It’s important to remember that while supplements can be beneficial, they should not replace a nutrious diet or prescribed medications. Always ask a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or medication.
What causes irregular periods?
Irregular periods, or medically oligomenorrhea can be a result due to various reasons. Hormonal changes during puberty can cause irregular periods. Furthermore, perimenopause, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, stress, pregnancy, weight changes, excessive exercise, certain medications such as birth control pills, uterine problems, and Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can cause irregular periods.
What are the supplements that can help with periods?
While supplements can be beneficial, it’s mandatory to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. They will give distinct advice based on your specific health condition. Several health supplements for women have shown potential benefits for controlling irregular periods:
- Vitamin D: It is essential for hormone regulation and overall health.
- Magnesium: Helps reduce menstrual cramps and supports overall well-being.
- Vitamin B: Contribute to hormone balance and energy production.
- Inositol: Shown to improve insulin sensitivity and may help regulate menstrual cycles, especially in women with PCOS.
- Chasteberry: Traditionally used to support hormonal balance, but requires more research.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: May help reduce inflammation associated with irregular periods.
- Zinc: It plays a vital role in hormonal balance, particularly in the production and function of sex hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. These hormones are essential for regular menstrual cycles, ovulation, and overall reproductive health.
Management at home for irregular periods
While experimenting with health at home with unproven recipes is dangerous, some handy and proven management tips are:
- Fruits: Kamana Chauhan, Dietician, Nutrificious Diet Clinic, Ranchi, Jharkhand suggests eating estrogen-based fruits like pineapple, kiwi, lemon, mango, and orange. These fruits may increase the thickness of the uterine lining.
- Turmeric: Contains anti-inflammatory properties that might benefit menstrual health.
- Green Leafy Vegetables: They contain iron which may help make up the iron lost during the periods.
Keep in mind that while these may offer benefits, they are not a substitute for medical advice. If you’re experiencing persistent irregular periods, consult a healthcare professional to rule out underlying medical conditions.
What should you keep in mind before opting period supplements?
Before incorporating supplements into your routine, keep these factors in mind. Consult with your healthcare provider, and discuss the supplements with your doctor, especially if you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications. Dr Anita Gupta, Gynaecologist, Associate Director at Fortis La Femme, New Delhi, says, “Irregular menstrual cycle can be cured by addressing the underlying medical and gynaecological causes. Many times, they can be cured by hormonal tablets prescribed by a gynaecologist.”
Consult a gynaecologist to identify the underlying cause of irregular periods in your case. They will help you understand which supplement will suit you the best based on the underlying cause. Remember that health supplements for women are not a substitute for a healthy diet or proper medication. Eating a balanced diet is crucial to manage irregular periods.
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