Menstruation is a regular part of life as a woman, but the cramping, soreness, and side effects don’t have to be. When I was younger I didn’t suffer from the painful days that some of my peers did (I remember a few who would regularly stay home from school several days each month), but at some point in my 20’s the symptoms began to bother me more. Often times, day 1 would carry a lot of pain from cramps and would distract me from work or enjoying my day, and I’d spend hours on the internet looking for solutions.
What I finally found and have been using for years, is blackstrap molasses. Ideally I take it daily for general health, but most importantly to eliminate my menstrual cramps I always make sure to take it every morning starting at least 7 days before my period arrives. 1 tablespoon has done the trick, but I’ve worked myself up to 2 tablespoons these days.
Blackstrap molasses is the thick, dark syrup that is created on the final boiling of syrup from sugar cane and contains many vitamins and minerals. Most importantly for women during that time of the month, it can replace iron lost through bleeding, and other important nutrients needed to balance the body.
I’ll be honest – the taste takes some getting used to. What I find works best and also helps increase absorption is chasing it with orange juice. I actually don’t even swallow the molasses first – just pop it in my mouth then wash everything down with oj. The taste doesn’t bother me at all anymore and I’m happy to report that orange juice has not been ruined by association for me. 🙂
Now I hardly remember I have my period at all aside from changing my menstrual cup twice a day – but that’s another story. 😉
GET IT: Blackstrap Molasses
BEST BUY: 128 oz. Jug (once you make it a habit!)