How 'Period Chocolate' Helps With More Than Cravings

When "that time of the month" rolls around, many people with periods do whatever they can to safely alleviate the aches and pains and tend to their personal needs, whatever that may look like. Yep, we're talking about PMS and menstrual cramps, y'all! While no one experiences the exact same symptoms, menstruation can cause pretty severe discomfort for some. In fact, period cramps can disrupt or interfere with work, school, and social activities due to the excruciating levels of pain they can cause, according to Mayo Clinic. When most humans are going through a rough run of it, whether it be physical, mental, or emotional, we tend to turn to foods that, well... Give us comfort. And this phenomenon absolutely applies to Aunt Flo's monthly visits.

So, what should people eat while on their period? OB-GYN Cristina McClure, DO at Cleveland Clinic recommends stocking up on iron-rich foods such as red meats and leafy greens, excellent sources of antioxidants like dark berries, and fibrous grub including fruits and veggies, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. And instead of indulging in tempting sugary snacks, a few bites of dark chocolate can healthily satisfy your sweet tooth and help you get the antioxidants your body craves. And much to the delight of uterus-owning consumers, innovative minds are now creating foods that are specially designed for this very matter.

Plain and simply, periods can be a pain — both literally and figuratively. Thankfully, tons of progress has been made over the years in the science behind how to diminish the suffering many people experience. Some of these advancements have appeared in the form of beneficial foods, specifically chocolate. One company in particular is spearheading a movement that has triggered a collective sigh of relief among those who have periods.

Period Chocolate isn't your average bonbon. Its name says it all: This treat is formulated with full spectrum hemp extract, which has medical powers that help relieve period pain, cramps, anxiety, headaches, and other sore situations, as Phasey, the brand behind the candy, claims. (Research about hemp's impact on menstrual pain relief remains "limited," says Medical News Today, but there are signs it may reduce inflammation.) Phasey's mission is to destigmatize menstruation and support reproductive education.

"The narrative about period cravings has forever been about how we're powerless to them," Asha Carroll, founder of Phasey, told Thrillist. "But it's a whole different game when we make the choice to listen to our cravings, to sing and dance our way to the ice cream or the chocolate." A practical reason to buy and eat chocolate? Don't mind if we do!