Having a healthy period is a right for all women. With the food industry evolving and adapting to its needs, personalized nutrition emerges as a promising opportunity to promote female well-being. In this article, we will explore the complexities of the menstrual cycle and how nutrition can be an ally in achieving a healthy period.
Breaking taboos and promoting healthy menstruation
Menstruation is still often considered taboo, resulting in women talking about it in hushed tones and with some embarrassment. However, understanding it is the first step to promoting a healthy period. After all, according to the IBGE census conducted in 2022, there are about 5 million more women than men in Brazil.
Therefore, and considering the complexity of the female body, the menstrual cycle is a journey that involves several phases, each with its own nutritional and physical needs. Understanding these phases allows for a more effective and personalized approach to building a more accessible path toward a healthy period.
Follicular Phase (Menstruation): During this phase, estrogen levels are rising, and hormonal changes can cause discomfort. Melina Gonçalves, Sales Coordinator at Mastersense, points out that consuming calming teas and iron-rich foods can help relieve cramps and replenish nutrients lost during this period.
Ovulatory Phase: Characterized by the release of the egg, this is a phase of high energy. Foods like mixed fruit and dried fruit can provide energy, while intense activities like spinning are ideal.
Luteal Phase: During this phase, the corpus luteum produces estrogen and progesterone. The desire for chocolate during this period is no accident. According to Melina, dark chocolate can increase serotonin, improving mood during PMS.
But how can the food industry adapt to these needs?
The food industry has been moving to address this issue more openly. With constant innovation, we've seen an increase in the creation of products tailored to the different phases of the menstrual cycle. From functional teas to enriched supplements, the market has focused on meeting the specific needs of this population.
Follicular Phase: Develop functional teas, alternative yogurts with ingredients to relieve cramps, and foods that help metabolize estrogen. Reduce sugar and sodium in products and explore flavor-modulating technologies.
Ovulatory Phase: Create protein- and energy-rich products, such as protein bars and healthy snacks. Offer flavors that are both indulgent and healthy.
Luteal Phase: products such as dark chocolate, vitamin and mineral supplement gummies, iron-rich foods, and options to satisfy food cravings.
As the food industry continues to evolve, it's critical to embrace the opportunity for personalized nutrition for women at different stages of their menstrual cycle.
Personalized nutrition for a healthy period
Personalized nutrition is a promising approach to optimizing female well-being and promoting healthy menstruation. Melina explains that Mastersense not only distributes ingredients and flavors, but also offers technical support to develop personalized products for each woman.
In this sense, the food industry is responding to women's needs with specific products. Chocolates with zinc, magnesium, and vitamins, bars with vegetable proteins, and enriched protein drinks are examples of products that can help balance nutrition during the cycle.
Enriched Chocolates: Brazilian products, such as 60% cocoa chocolate, offer additional benefits, including zinc, magnesium and vitamin BCS, without sugar.
Energy Bars: a Dutch option that combines fiber, magnesium and vegetable proteins.
Protein Drinks: products sold in Nigeria, rich in vitamins and minerals.
How to have more well-being and a healthy menstruation
Menstrual health shouldn't be taboo, but rather an opportunity to address women's specific needs. With a personalized approach, the food industry can help women navigate this phase with confidence and vitality. After all, breaking taboos and talking openly about healthy menstruation is the first step toward a more positive journey.
Investment in research and development is essential to create innovative solutions that meet women's needs. And always remember to consult a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or starting any supplement regimen. This is because every woman is unique, and personalized nutrition should be tailored to her individual needs.
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Source: Content based on the presentation by Gisele Bannwart, PhD, Global Director of Innovation at Key Accounts, given during the NIS Women's Healthy Day Webinar.
