13. Consume blackstrap molasses
Another one of the remedies for menstrual cramps that has stood the test of time is blackstrap molasses. This amazing, sweet substance is a byproduct of the sugarcane refining process. To create blackstrap molasses, manufacturers first mash sugar cane to obtain juice. This juice is then boiled to form cane syrup. After a second boiling, the result is molasses. When it is boiled a third time, the resulting dark and viscous liquid is what is known as blackstrap molasses. Interestingly, it has the lowest sugar content of any of the sugar cane products.
Unlike refined sugar, which is of no nutritional value whatsoever, blackstrap molasses is full of nutrients. It contains crucial vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, selenium, potassium and vitamin B6, and has been hailed as a so-called ‘superfood.’ Although it’s not a miracle cure for anything, blackstrap molasses can help with a number of conditions, including period pain. It helps to reduce the blood clots associated with menstruation and also soothes the muscles of the uterine wall. This reduces cramps during menstruation.
There are a number of delicious ways of taking blackstrap molasses. For example, you can add 1 or 2 teaspoons of it to a cup of warm milk to soothe and nourish you during that time of the month. Drink as soon as you start getting cramps, and keep drinking it a few times a day until your symptoms subside. Not only will it help with cramping, but it will provide many other benefits to your body. For example, by providing both calcium and potassium, blackstrap molasses can contribute to healthy bones and help to prevent osteoporosis.
It also makes a diabetic-friendly sweetener. Blackstrap molasses is also a great source of iron. In fact, approximately five tablespoons of it contain up to 95% of your recommended daily allowance of iron.