Traditional Dietary Practices and Related Taboos during Menstruation among Women of Rural Households in Haryana: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Women imbibe many myths, taboos, and practices about food during menstruation. The sociocultural
milieu of Indian society can explain the notions of menstrual restrictions. Aim: To know the traditional
dietary practices and related taboos during menstruation among women of rural households in Sonepat, Haryana.
Material and Methods: This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 90 households in
village Juan, Haryana selected by systematic random sampling from July 2021 to June 2022. Data regarding
traditional dietary practices and related taboos during menstruation among women at the household level were
collected using an open-ended questionnaire from a woman from each selected household after written informed
consent. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.
Results: Mean age (SD) of the study participants was 44.1 (14) years with a range from 18-85 years. Two-thirds
(66.7%) of study households reported avoidance of buttermilk/curd and pickles due to the belief of an increase in
pain and cramps on consumption. One-third of study households preferred hot beverages such as tea (37.8%) and
tea with clarified butter (31.1%) believing that pain and cramps get relieved, and clarified butter provides strength
to the body.
Conclusion: There are a number of dietary practices and related taboos prevalent among study households that
may affect mental health.