By Gita Vellanki
When my daughter first got her period, the pain was so intense she’d curl up in bed, missing school and basketball practice. Doctors said it was “normal” and that she should just learn to manage it. I remembered hearing the same thing as a teen, and it struck me: why are we telling our girls to suffer through something that happens every single month?
Heavy bleeding, cramps, acne, and PMS aren’t something teens should just accept. They are signals that the body needs better support—and with the right daily habits, cycles can feel easier to manage.
Why Periods Hit Teens So Hard
During menstruation, the body loses iron, burns through energy reserves, and undergoes hormonal shifts. Without proper support, this can lead to fatigue, cramps, mood swings, and skin flare-ups. Instead of dismissing these struggles as “just part of being a girl,” we can give teens tools that help them feel stronger and more in control.
Small Daily Shifts, Big Impact
- Iron + protein for energy: Lentils, spinach, seeds, and lean proteins help prevent energy crashes.
- Magnesium for cramps: Nuts, seeds, and dark chocolate relax muscles and ease pain.
- Fiber + antioxidants for balance: Whole grains, fruits, and veggies regulate blood sugar and calm inflammation linked to PMS and acne.
- Movement + rest: Gentle exercise, stress management, and sleep all reduce symptom intensity.
Where Neeshi Fits In
That journey of trial, error, and research is what led me to create Neeshi’s Protein Blend—a daily functional food designed to support hormone health. Just one scoop provides quality protein and fiber to help keep energy steady, cravings in check, and hormones nourished. It’s proactive support, not reactive relief—building a stronger foundation long before cramps, mood swings, or fatigue strike. Parents share that their teens feel lighter cycles, fewer PMS struggles, and more confidence when Neeshi becomes part of their routine. And because it blends easily into smoothies, oatmeal, or even pancake batter, it fits seamlessly into busy schedules.
Shifting the Message for the Next Generation
Most importantly, we need to shift the message we give to girls: periods shouldn’t be something they’re told to suffer through. With the right daily nourishment and support, teens can move from “just dealing with it” to thriving—even on their cycle days.
About the Author: Gita Vellanki is the founder of Neeshi, a functional food company offering daily nutritional support for hormone balance. Inspired by her own journey and her daughter’s struggles with painful periods, she created Neeshi to make it easier for women and teens to nourish their hormones, every single day.