Fact or Myth

So was there any fact behind the idea of giving light and non-spicy food during menses?

The answer is both yes and no.

"Yes because eating light overall is healthy and it puts less stress on your stomach and the process of digestion. This in turn does not add any further discomfort during menstruation," adds dietician Sushila Sharangdhar.

And no because eating light or non-oily food did not in any way affect the flow or the cramps during your periods. In fact you can have any food you like but in moderation.

"Every woman has a different body set up and hormonal balance. So what works for you or doesn't may not apply to another woman. Basically, all your menstrual problems are a result of the working of the hormone Progesterone, " says Dr. Rafi.

Excessive progesterone can cause water retention and swelling of your body or irregularity in menses, including severe cramps.

That said, switching to good nutritional food habits might bring some relief to menstrual cramps.

Problem Foods

One recommendation by gyneacologists and nutritionists is to decrease the intake of foods that produce a specific fatty acid called series 2 - Prostaglandins that cause muscle and uterine contractions.

These foods include dairy products, saturated fats and refined carbohydrates like cookies, biscuits, white bread and red meat.