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Does Vitamin C Affect Your Period?
Vitamin C and Menstruation
Rumor has it that taking vitamin C for periods can affect your hormones and even make your period come sooner.
While there's no strong basis for the claim that vitamin C can affect your period cycle, she says if you're curious about boosting vitamin C, you should choose food sources.
High-dose supplements can cause digestive issues, and if you're taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, vitamin C could increase your estrogen levels too much, according to the Mayo Clinic.
- Bell peppers
- Oranges
- Spinach
Other Vitamins for a Healthy Cycle
Magnesium, zinc, iron, B complex vitamins and omega-3 fats are all linked to fewer period problems and PMS symptoms, Sylvester Terry says.
- Whole grains
- Beans
- Lentils Peas
- Green vegetables
- Low-fat dairy
- Fatty fish
- Lean meat
Read more: 7 Benefits of Healthy Eating
What About Pineapple or Herbs?
Another rumor: Pineapple can prompt a period or even induce labor. According to the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, the theory is that because bromelain, an enzyme in pineapples, can break down the protein in tissues, it can also soften the cervix, leading to labor. However, Sylvester Terry says the claim is not supported with significant evidence. "Neither canned nor fresh pineapple contain enough bromelain to induce labor or a period," she says.
- Foeniculum vulgare (fennel)
- Mentha longifolia (wild mint)
- Paeonia lactiflora (Chinese peony)
- Sesamum indicum L. (sesame)
- Vitex agnus-castus (chaste tree)
The researchers call for more rigorous research into these five herbs before drawing any firm conclusions.
If you're thinking of going the herbal route to help with your periods, do so carefully — the U.S. Food & Drug Administration warns that dietary supplements, including herbal ones, are not regulated like medicines. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplement to make sure it's right for you.