Health - Wellness
How Your Period Actually Changes Your Brain
By KHARISSA FORTE
The average menstrual cycle clocks in at 28 days, and a lot is happening in the body during this time, including in the brain. During "Phase 2" of your menstrual cycle — about 6 days in — the hormones estrogen and progesterone consistently rise and fall, resulting in the brain not quite performing at its best.
Brain fog usually happens during this phrase, and to combat it, Healthline recommends taking a break from your phone, eating antioxidant-rich foods (like blueberries, nuts, beets, and fish), and drinking less caffeine and alcohol. Headaches are also common and typically result from low iron levels, stress, and dehydration, so stay hydrated and minimize stressful activities.
Unusually heavy periods can also be a sign of iron deficiency; if you suspect this is happening to you, eat foods such red meat, salmon, beans, or tofu and talk to a doctor. Your menstrual cycle might also cause memory lapses and clumsiness, so get organized, sleep well, and be patient with yourself and only work on one task at a time.