If you experience intense cramps before or during your period, what you eat in the days leading up to it can make a difference. Certain foods have anti-inflammatory properties, help ease muscle tension, and can support your body in coping with menstrual discomfort. Here are some foods you should incorporate into your diet before your period:

1. Ginger Tea
   Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory that helps soothe muscle pain and reduce cramping. Drinking ginger tea a few days before your period can help lessen the intensity of cramps. Plus, it's great for settling an upset stomach and reducing bloating.

2. Pineapple
   Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme known for its ability to relax muscles and reduce inflammation. Eating fresh pineapple can help ease the tension in your uterine muscles and may reduce the severity of cramps.

3. Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Swiss Chard)
   Leafy greens are packed with magnesium, which is known to relax muscles and reduce pain. They’re also rich in iron, which is essential since your iron levels can drop around your period, especially if your flow is heavy. Increasing your intake of greens can help prevent fatigue and ease cramping.

4. Bananas
   Bananas are high in potassium and vitamin B6, both of which help alleviate bloating and reduce muscle cramps. Potassium is essential for regulating muscle contractions, and eating bananas can help relieve menstrual-related tension in the lower abdomen.

5. Dark Chocolate
   Not only is dark chocolate a great mood booster, but it's also a good source of magnesium. Magnesium helps relax muscles and ease cramps, and dark chocolate can satisfy your sweet cravings while providing relief from period pain.

6. Yogurt and Other Probiotic-Rich Foods
   Foods rich in probiotics, like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, can support gut health and improve digestion, which may reduce bloating and discomfort around your period. Plus, the calcium in yogurt helps to reduce muscle cramping and is known to improve mood during PMS.

7. Avocados
   Avocados are loaded with healthy fats, magnesium, and potassium. This superfood helps prevent cramping by promoting muscle relaxation and reducing inflammation. Including avocados in your diet is a delicious and healthy way to alleviate discomfort before your period.

8. Chamomile Tea
   Like ginger tea, chamomile tea has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help relax your muscles and reduce the severity of menstrual cramps. Drinking chamomile tea also promotes relaxation, which can help improve sleep quality when you're feeling uncomfortable.

By adding these foods to your diet in the days leading up to your period, you can reduce the severity of cramps and help your body handle menstrual discomfort with more ease. Eating a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory and nutrient-dense foods can make a huge difference in how you feel during your cycle.