If you have a period, then you’re likely all too familiar with the dreaded menstrual cramps. During menstruation, a compound known as prostaglandins triggers the uterus to contract, allowing for blood flow. But this can also result in abdominal cramps.

The severity of period cramps differs between people, but it’s often more severe in individuals diagnosed with conditions like premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

RELATED: Babies With Cystic Fibrosis More Likely To Experience Stomach Problems

You may be surprised to learn that what you eat can affect the severity of your menstrual cramps. Certain foods increase prostaglandin levels, bloating, and can contribute to digestive issues, thereby exacerbating period cramps. As such, it’s recommended to avoid the following foods while you have your period.

13 Coffee

You may be grumpy without your morning coffee, but it can actually make you feel worse in the long run while on your period.

Coffee increases the body’s water retention, making you more bloated. It can also cause digestive issues, which can exacerbate abdominal pains as well as cause diarrhea.

Additionally, Times of India explains that coffee can cause vasoconstriction, which occurs when the blood vessels narrow. This, in turn, can worsen cramps and increase bloating.

12 Salt

If you’re already feeling bloated while menstruating, then you’ll want to avoid salty foods. Salt increases water retention in the body, Healthline explains, which can make you more bloated.

11 Sugar

Many people crave something sweet while on their period, but only consume sugary foods in moderation.

While sugar can cause your energy to spike, it’ll be followed by a crash that can worsen an already bad mood, especially if you struggle with moodiness or anxiety while menstruating.

10 Red Meat

Many people assume it’s better to consume more red meat while menstruating since it’s rich in iron. While this is true, red meats can actually cause cramps during your period. This is because they contain compounds known as prostaglandins.

The body produced more prostaglandins than normal while menstruating because it helps the uterus contract and rid itself of the uterine lining, allowing your period to begin. This is why cramps occur.

But higher levels of prostaglandins can lead to worsened cramping, which is why eating red meat may be more harmful than beneficial.

9 Carbonated Drinks

Carbonated drinks (like sodas or sparkling water) tend to cause the stomach to bloat. When you’re on your period, this can make abdominal pains more intense and uncomfortable. Simple liquids like fresh juice and water are your best bet.

8 Fatty & Processed Food

Similar to red meat, fatty foods can raise the number of prostaglandins in the body, which can make cramping even worse.

It’s also a good idea to avoid processed foods while menstruating since additives can increase abdominal discomfort. Times of India adds that the presence of trans fats or hydrogenated oils in processed foods may increase inflammation, thereby worsening discomfort.

Alternatively, the outlet recommends sticking to a diet of “whole foods, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables” to lessen period symptoms.

7 Alcohol

Additionally, Healthline warns that alcohol can have a myriad of negative effects on your body, which are only amplified while you have your period.

Alcohol tends to dehydrate you, which can make headaches and bloating worse. It can also result in digestive issues, thus worsening abdominal cramps, nausea, and can even cause diarrhea.

These effects are amplified if you get stuck with a hangover, which can make your period even more unbearable.

6 Anything Spicy

Spicy foods tend to upset the stomach, especially if you’re not used to consuming them. This can worsen stomach cramping as well as cause diarrhea and nausea.

5 Dairy

Think twice before making grilled cheese or a milkshake. Dairy products are known to cause cramping and digestive issues, even if you’re not on your period. This is because they contain arachidonic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid), which worsens inflammation and thus cramping.

4 Legumes

Like many of the foods on this list, legumes – which can include chickpeas, peas, and beans – can cause bloating. This, in turn, can make period cramps more intense.

3 Chocolate

Many people crave chocolate while on their period, but it’s actually one food that can make your period cramps worse.

Like red meat, chocolate can heighten prostaglandins levels in the body, the compounds that make the uterus contract. As such, it can make abdominal pain even worse, adding to your discomfort.

2 Fried Foods

Insider explains that fried foods – like pizza, French fries, and doughnuts – can increase inflammation in the body, which research linked to heightened period cramps.

1 Saturated Fats

For the same reason as fried products, any foods containing saturated fats stands to increase your period cramps, as it can cause inflammation. Items high in saturated fats include coconut oil, dairy, and fatty meats.

Sources: Healthline, Times of India, Insider,