Iron, protein, vitamins, and fluids help the body cope better with blood loss and support recovery during heavy periods.
1. Iron-rich foods
Iron helps rebuild hemoglobin and prevents anemia caused by ongoing blood loss.
Vegetarian iron-rich foods
- Spinach
- Amaranth leaves (chaulai)
- Drumstick leaves and drumstick soup
- Beetroot (cooked or soup)
- Dates (khajoor)
- Raisins (kishmish)
- Figs (anjeer)
- Jaggery (small quantity)
- Black sesame seeds (til)
- Pumpkin seeds
- Garden cress seeds (halim / aliv)
- Moong sprouts, matki sprouts
- Lentils: moong dal, masoor dal, chana dal
2. Vitamin C rich foods
Vitamin C improves iron absorption from plant-based foods.
- Amla (fresh or diluted juice)
- Orange, sweet lime (mosambi)
- Pomegranate
- Guava
- Lemon (added to dal or soup)
- Tomato (preferably cooked during periods)
3. Protein rich foods
Protein supports strength, muscle recovery, and reduces fatigue.
- Moong dal, masoor dal
- Paneer
- Milk and curd
- Tofu
- Almonds, walnuts
- Flaxseed and sunflower seeds
4. Mineral and electrolyte-rich foods
These foods support blood pressure, reduce cramps, and help with dizziness.
- Banana (potassium)
- Coconut water
- Dates and figs (magnesium)
- Buttermilk with roasted cumin
- Steamed vegetables
5. Easily digestible comfort foods
Light, simple foods are helpful when appetite is low or weakness is severe.
- Clear vegetable soups (bottle gourd, ridge gourd, carrot)
- Drumstick soup
- Soft khichdi (rice + dal)
- Steamed vegetables
- Plain rice with dal
Dr. Dimple Doshi’s Tip:
During very heavy days, gentle, warm, home-cooked meals are often better tolerated than rich or spicy foods.