“I am thinking to eat chocolate, no wait ice-cream, no wait I want a donut and a pizza.” This is one of the phases that every woman goes through during her periods. You start to feel low, irritated and your hunger pangs are at their highest. It’s very common to experience an increase in your appetite before and during your periods. The hormone changes which are associated with your periodical cycle can make you crave for food and the mood change that accompanies your period might lead you to crave foods that are higher in carbohydrates and sugar.
Some researchers and studies have suggested that compulsive eating has a physiological component attached to it. It states that when a woman is just starting on period, her BMR goes up by 9% which ends up in the body craving for the extra food we should not eat. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone are also responsible for these food cravings. Estrogen appears to be associated with a decrease in appetite. Estrogen levels are highest during ovulation whereas the progesterone levels are highest just when you’re starting with your periods. Progesterone is responsible for the increase in your appetite. So all of your craving during the periods of carbohydrates and sugars comes because of this. The body starts to produce more cortisol which is considered to be a stress hormone, and this hormone comes with the sugar cravings.
The other reason that studies have shown in relation to why do women crave for food during periods is because women possibly become a bit more responsive to insulin in the pre-menstrual phase. Some women start to experience mild alterations in their blood sugar and craving for chocolate. Other than this, some studies have also suggested that women are usually told and advised to avoid eating fat and sugar to maintain a certain type of body figure. But somehow, it is acceptable to have those fats and sugary products during your periods. It’s like you are rewarding yourself for going through this tough time every month.
Foods like dark chocolate are known to ease down the hunger pangs you have every 10 minutes of the day. You can much onto fruits, vegetables, protein-rich foods, and whole grains to fill up your craving for food. To maintain a healthy diet even during periods, choose high fiber natural foods such as dates and walnuts to reward your body. Keep your body stocked and ready.
FAQ’s
2.Does your period make you hungrier?
Yes, your period can make you feel hungrier. The rise in progesterone at the onset of menstruation is associated with an increased appetite, causing cravings for comfort foods high in sugar and carbs. This appetite surge is further influenced by cortisol, the body's stress hormone, which triggers cravings for sweet foods, amplifying your hunger.
3.Why do I feel more hungry during periods?
Feeling hungrier during periods is a common experience due to the body’s physiological response to hormonal changes. Estrogen levels decrease, while progesterone and cortisol levels rise, leading to increased appetite. This hormonal shift can make you crave calorie-dense foods, which is a natural response to the body’s need for extra energy.
4.Why do I get hungry on my period?
Hunger during periods is largely due to hormonal changes and metabolic adjustments. The pre-menstrual phase makes women more responsive to insulin, which can alter blood sugar levels and increase cravings, especially for chocolate and other sweets. These shifts are a natural reaction as the body prepares for the energy demands of menstruation.
5.Is it normal to eat more before and during my period?
Yes, it’s normal to eat more before and during your period due to increased appetite from hormonal changes. Rising progesterone levels stimulate hunger, while increased cortisol leads to sugar cravings. Many women use this time to indulge in cravings, which feels like a reward for enduring monthly discomfort
6. What causes sugar cravings on my period?
Sugar cravings during periods are driven by elevated cortisol levels, which is the body’s stress hormone. This increase is accompanied by a natural tendency to crave high-energy foods. Combined with the effects of progesterone, which also boosts appetite, it’s common to seek sugary foods for a quick energy boost.
7.Why do I crave carbs and sweets during my period?
Cravings for carbs and sweets during menstruation are linked to hormonal fluctuations that affect appetite and mood. Lower estrogen and higher progesterone levels lead to a preference for comfort foods that are high in carbohydrates and sugar. Additionally, the body’s increased insulin sensitivity can trigger cravings for sweet foods as a quick source of energy.
8. How can I manage hunger during my period without overeating?
To manage hunger without overeating, choose nutrient-dense foods that keep you full for longer. Dark chocolate, fruits, vegetables, protein-rich foods, and whole grains are great options. High-fiber foods like dates and walnuts provide lasting energy, helping you feel satisfied without giving in to excessive cravings.
9. Is it okay to indulge in cravings during my period?
Indulging in cravings moderately during your period is generally fine, as it can be a way to reward yourself for managing menstrual discomfort. Many women allow themselves more freedom with food during this time, and choosing healthier indulgences like dark chocolate or whole foods can help satisfy cravings in a balanced way.
10.Why does my body want more food before my period?
Before your period, the body’s BMR increases, meaning it burns more calories even at rest, which can trigger hunger. This is also the time when progesterone levels peak, further boosting appetite. These combined effects prepare the body with extra energy, which can help ease the body’s transition into the menstrual phase.
