If you tend to retain water during your period, alcohol will only add to your problems, says Dr. Lark. Don't drink, she advises. Or if you must, limit yourself to a glass or two of light wine. Don't do diuretics. Many women think diuretics are great for reducing menstrual bloating, but Dr. Lark advises against them.
Diuretics have the ability to take important minerals from the body along with the water.
Instead, she advises, reduce your intake of water-retentive substances like salt and alcohol. The Alternate Route Get a Foothold for Pain Relief Relief from cramps might be just a therapeutic touch away, says Alexis Phillips, a medical massage instructor and supervisor of the Peter Ling Clinic of the Swedish Institute in New York City. The foot contains acupressure or trigger points that are believed to be connected along internal energy pathways to your pelvic area, she explains. Gently press in with your thumb and fingertips. Do the same along the sides of your Achilles tendon, moving up toward your calf muscle.