How Caffeine and Coffee Affect PMS and Painful Periods: Plus a Hormone Supporting Alternative that Doesn't Skip on Energy & Focus

PMS (premenstrual syndrome), PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) and painful periods impact the best of life in the worst of ways. While these menstrual issues are common, they can actually be avoided by living a cycle syncing lifestyle.

One effective lifestyle shift is to reduce caffeine intake, especially during the luteal phase, days 14-28, the 2 weeks leading up to your period. If you're thinking that giving up that cup of joe seems impossible, we luckily have an alternative that won't have you missing the energy and focus that coffee can bring. And, this alternative has been specifically formulated to ease and prevent PMS and painful periods, and even enhance menstrual phase benefits, such as increased libido and vitality associated with the follicular and ovulation phases.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how caffeine impacts menstrual health and how our warm and delicious herbal coffee alternative, Moonrise Morning, can be a superior choice for reducing symptoms.

How Caffeine Affects PMS and Painful Periods

Caffeine, the natural stimulant found in coffee, tea, and certain energy drinks, has long been a go-to for boosting energy and alertness. However, when it comes to PMS and painful periods, caffeine can have a detrimental effect on hormone levels and overall menstrual health.

Here are some. of the ways caffeine can make PMS, PMDD and painful periods worse:

1. Increased Anxiety and Stress

Caffeine stimulates the adrenal glands, increasing the production of cortisol, the stress hormone. Higher cortisol levels can lead to heightened anxiety, irritability, and mood swings—common PMS symptoms. These mood fluctuations can also make menstrual cramps feel more intense.

2. Worsening of Bloating and Digestive Issues

Caffeine is a diuretic, meaning it promotes frequent urination, which can lead to dehydration and bloating. During PMS, many individuals already experience water retention and digestive discomfort, so caffeine may exacerbate these symptoms. Additionally, coffee’s acidity can irritate the stomach, worsening bloating and discomfort.

3. Impact on Hormonal Balance

Caffeine can interfere with the body’s estrogen levels. Excessive caffeine consumption has been linked to hormonal imbalances, which can intensify PMS symptoms like breast tenderness and irritability. It can also disrupt the body’s ability to metabolize progesterone, a hormone essential for regulating the menstrual cycle.

4. Increased Pain Sensitivity

Studies have shown that caffeine can increase sensitivity to pain, including the cramping associated with menstruation. This can make painful periods feel even more unbearable, as the caffeine can heighten inflammation and pain perception.

A Better Alternative: Cycle Sisters’ Moonrise Morning Herbal Coffee Replacement

So it's clear that caffeine proposes many negative effects when it comes to PMS and painful periods, but we all know that first, maybe 2nd, or even 3rd cup everyday can. be some of the best moments of the morning. The heightened focus and awareness, the warm comforting delicious taste. How can we give that up?!

Cycle Sisters has introduced a new herbal coffee replacement called Moonrise Morning, designed to provide a more gentle, supportive option for individuals dealing with menstrual discomfort. Packed with potent herbs that get to the root of energy and optimal cognitive functioning by supporting circulation and stress adaptation, as well as herbs that are known for their positive effects on menstrual health, this herbal blend helps to naturally bring focus, vitality, improve mood, reduce bloating, and support optimal hormone balance.

Skip the caffeine energy crash, jitters, anxiety, hormonal imbalance, dehydration and increased pain sensitivity that can lead to PMS and painful periods. This herbal adaptogenic blend offers energy, focus & vitality without. the negative menstrual health impact.

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients in Moonrise Morning and how they can help ease PMS and painful periods.

The Herbs That Make Moonrise Morning a Game-Changer

1. Maca Root: Maca is a powerful adaptogen known for its ability to balance hormones and improve energy levels. Studies suggest that maca can help regulate estrogen levels and reduce symptoms such as mood swings, fatigue, and irritability. Additionally, maca has been linked to improved libido, making it a great herb for supporting overall well-being, confidence and sexual health during the menstrual cycle.

   
   

   

   Maca supports hormonal balance to address the root of PMS and painful periods.

   
   
   
   

2. Rhodiola Rosea: Rhodiola is another adaptogenic herb that can support the body during times of stress. It has been shown to improve mood, reduce fatigue, and promote cognitive function. Rhodiola can help balance cortisol levels, preventing the heightened stress response that exacerbates PMS symptoms. Instead of feeling stressed and out-of-it, rhodiola is a great herbal ally for focus and awareness.

   
   

   

   Rhodiola is a powerful adaptogen that may support focus, energy and alertness.

   
   
   
   

3. Cacao: Cacao isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with mood-boosting compounds like serotonin and phenylethylamine, which help to promote feelings of well-being. Cacao can also reduce cravings for sugary foods, a common issue during PMS. Furthermore, its high magnesium content helps to relax muscles and may alleviate menstrual cramps.

   
   

   

   Packed with mood-boosting compounds, cacao may support PMS mood swings.

1. Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a natural anti-inflammatory that helps regulate blood sugar levels. Maintaining steady blood sugar levels can reduce irritability and mood swings commonly experienced during PMS. Cinnamon also helps improve circulation, which may reduce the intensity of menstrual cramps.

   
   

   

   Maintaining steady blood sugar levels with cinnamon can reduce PMS mood swings.

   
   

2. Vanilla: Moonrise Morning uses real whole vanilla bean. Vanilla not only adds a sweet flavor to the blend but also has mild antidepressant properties that can enhance mood. Its calming effects can help manage the anxiety and irritability that often accompany PMS.

   
   

   

   
   
   
   

3. Ginger: Ginger is a well-known remedy for nausea, bloating, and digestive discomfort, making it an excellent choice for relieving symptoms of PMS. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the severity of menstrual cramps and ease general discomfort.

   
   

   

   Ginger's digestion promoting and anti-inflammatory qualities make it a fantastic ally for PMS and painful periods.

   
   

4. Chicory Root: Chicory root is a natural prebiotic that promotes digestive health. It also helps to reduce bloating by encouraging healthy gut bacteria, which is particularly beneficial during PMS when digestive discomfort is common. It also has a similar taste to coffee, making the transition away from it easier.

   
   

   

   Chicory root supports the gut and has a similar taste to coffee, making. it a great altnerative.

   
   

5. Dandelion Root: Like chicory root, dandelion root also has similar flavor profiles to coffee. Dandelion root is a also a natural diuretic that can help reduce water retention and bloating during PMS. It also supports liver function, aiding in the detoxification process of excess hormones, to improve hormone balance and prevent PMS and painful periods.

   
   

   

   Dandelion root can reduce PMS bloating and support the liver to metabolize excess hormones for PMS and painful period prevention.

   
   

6. Damiana: Damiana is an herb known for boosting libido and enhancing sexual wellness. It also has a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to reduce anxiety and stress during PMS. This herb also improves circulation to all organs, including the brain, allowing the brain to function more optimally for focus, creativity and production.

   
   

   

   Damiana improves circulation to help energize the body and the mind.

   
   

7. Fenugreek: Fenugreek has been shown to regulate blood sugar levels, which can help to control cravings and prevent mood swings. It is also beneficial for improving breast tenderness and balancing hormones.

   
   

   

   Fenugreek may regulate blood sugar levels and balance hormones to reduce PMS and painfu periods.

   
   
   
   

The Science Behind These Herbs

Each of the herbs in Moonrise Morning has been carefully selected for its proven benefits in managing PMS and menstrual discomfort. Research shows that adaptogenic herbs like maca and rhodiola are particularly effective at reducing stress and balancing hormones. Studies have also demonstrated that herbs like ginger and cinnamon can help alleviate menstrual cramps and digestive discomfort, while herbs like dandelion root and chicory are beneficial for reducing bloating and promoting overall hormonal health.

Why Moonrise Morning is a Superior Alternative to Coffee

Unlike traditional coffee, which can exacerbate PMS symptoms by increasing anxiety, bloating, and pain sensitivity, Moonrise Morning offers a gentle, herbal alternative that provides natural energy without the jittery side effects of caffeine. The carefully selected herbs work synergistically to balance hormones, support digestion, and improve mood. This means you can enjoy sustained energy and focus throughout the day without the negative impact on your menstrual health.

Additionally, Moonrise Morning’s herbal blend is designed to regulate blood sugar levels, reduce bloating, and support optimal cognitive function. By choosing this herbal coffee replacement, you’re supporting your body in a way that coffee simply can’t, ensuring that you feel your best during all phases of your menstrual cycle.

Still Not Sure if You Can Give Up Coffee?

The idea is to reduce caffeine intake, not necessarily give it up altogether. If you love joining a friend for a latte from time to time, go for it! Suzie, the founder of Cycle Sisters, likes to enjoy half a cup of coffee, with half a cup of Moonrise Morning during her follicular and ovulation phases, days 6-13. Then, during her luteal and menstruation phases, days 14-28 and days 1-5, she switches to Moonrise Morning on it's own with her favorite creamer. The goal isn't perfection. Being realistic with lifestyle changes will make them more accessible and effective.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to coffee that won’t exacerbate PMS or painful periods, Moonrise Morning by Cycle Sisters is a game-changer. With a blend of powerful herbs like maca, rhodiola, cacao, and ginger, Moonrise Morning supports natural energy, improved mood, balanced hormones, and reduced bloating. Make the switch today and experience the benefits of a holistic, plant-based solution for managing your menstrual health.

References

• Basch, E., Gabardi, S., & Ulbricht, C. (2003). Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum): A Review of its Therapeutic Efficacy. HerbalGram, 57, 36-40.

• Brooks, A. J., et al. (2008). Effects of Maca on Physical and Psychological Symptoms of Menopause: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 28(4), 387-391.

• Darbinyan, V., et al. (2007). Rhodiola Rosea in Stress-Related Fatigue—A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 13(6), 1023-1028.

• Gonzalez, A., et al. (2017). Cocoa and Cardiovascular Health. Nutrients, 9(10), 1036.

• Lumb, A. B., et al. (2009). Ginger for the Treatment of Painful Menstrual Periods: A Review. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 9, 18.

• Zhao, B., et al. (2009). Cinnamon Reduces Blood Sugar Levels in Type 2 Diabetic Patients. Journal of Medicinal Food, 12(5), 1004-1009.