How do Female Athletes Perform during Periods?
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For every one of us who befriend the couch for days on end during our periods, there are those of us who plunge into a swimming pool, or get geared up to participate in a triathlon. Even if you are not anticipating going weight-lifting or rock-climbing anytime soon, it might be interesting to know how females perform athletic activities on periods.
Overtime, several research studies were conducted to find multiple ways in which you can meet your workout goals without compromising on your health even if you are on your period. For instance using organic sanitary pads, makes working out during periods a more comfortable and safe experience by diminishing the chances of vaginal infection. Similarly period tracking apps allow you to be informed of your menstruation cycle and hence more in control of your bodily changes. Last but not the least, period side effects of headaches, bloating, cramps, mood swings, can also be reduced through personalised diet plans. The following are key factors every female athlete pays attention to during the professional course of their life.
Maintaining a High-Energy, Plant-Based Diet
Contradictory to one’s beliefs, female athletes require fat for muscle recovery, tissue growth, and the high performance of immune, reproductive, and nervous systems. Hence 25 – 35 % of total energy intake should be “high-performance” fats found in nuts, seeds, natural oils, olives and avocados. A diet rich in green, leafy vegetables keeps the iron and calcium levels raised to the recommended mark. Most importantly, female athletes must snack in between their workouts to maintain an optimum energy balance. Sticking with plant-based food helps female athletes maintain their ease in mobility, flexibility and suppleness. To know more about the diet of an athlete consider watching the newly-released documentary “The Game Changers.”