Nutritional practices to manage menstrual cycle related symptoms: a systematic review
April 18, 2023 No Comments
Full paper coming soon!
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Coach and athlete support for the menstrual cycle
April 18, 2023 No Comments
Key tips for coaches and athletes:
4. Exploring symptoms – why are emotions and mood affected by the menstrual cycle?
February 21, 2023 No Comments
At Optimal Period we want to help you recognise that if you are feeling moody, sad, angry or irritated before your period you are not
Exploring symptoms – 3. What causes food cravings with top tips on management.
February 7, 2023 No Comments
Chocolate cravings? Sugary food? Carb cravings? These food cravings are completely normal and usually occur 7-14 days before your period is due. What are food
Exploring symptoms – 2. What causes Period Pain and how to reduce this symptom
January 10, 2023 No Comments
Period pain is the most commonly experienced symptom related to the menstrual cycle. Research suggests over 90% of women who menstruate will experience menstrual cramps
Exploring Symptoms – 1. why do you feel lethargic and how can you ease this symptom
January 2, 2023 No Comments
New Year…it doesn’t mean NEW YOU, but why not start getting to KNOW ‘YOU’ better. It’s time to start exploring the nitty gritty and understanding
Attention FEMALE coaches – how can you improve the support you provide to female athletes
December 19, 2022 No Comments
“I think in this country we’re not very open about it [periods] in general” Brown & Knight (2021) Many female athletes report their male coaches
Advice for ALL Coaches supporting athletes who menstruate to perform optimally
December 16, 2022 No Comments
In sport and exercise, coaches play a huge role in supporting female athletes to train, compete or participate whilst on their period. Optimal Period is
How to manage PMS to perform optimally the week before your period
October 27, 2022 No Comments
I have booked a climbing holiday, I want to climb well…but it’s the week before my period. I know sometimes I struggle the week before
Struggling with tiredness or PMS? Understand how to reduce your symptoms
October 27, 2022 No Comments
Sometimes it can be hard to distinguish symptoms which are being caused by tiredness compared to those menstrual related…or premenstrual symptoms can seem worse because
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Dr Natalie Brown
Hey! I am Natalie, a research associate exploring all things menstrual cycle and sport related, whether that is Olympic performance or factors affecting participation in physical activity. When I am not talking about the menstrual cycle, I love climbing and being active outside. I have a background in physiology and research related to hormonal responses in athletes (male and female), combined with my own personal experience in sport, I am passionate to share information on the menstrual cycle with you.
5 things you can do right now to
Take charge of your menstrual cycle symptoms
We know the menstrual cycle can be a massive inconvenience, and something you just put up with and struggle through. But what if this doesn’t have to be the case? Add your details below to download the free PDF guide to taking charge of your menstrual cycle.