Why do you crave food during your period?
Menstrual cravings, especially the days before menstruation, are a completely normal physiological phenomenon. The main reason lies in hormones. During the regulation period (around the 15th - 28th of the cycle), the hormone progesterone increases, making you feel hungrier. At the same time, decreased serotonin levels can easily cause mood to plummet, you will tend to look for foods to "relieve" emotions, usually dishes high in sugar, starch or fat.
Dr. Nirmala M, an obstetrician and gynecologist in India, explains: When serotonin is reduced, the body will crave carbohydrates such as banh mi, pasta or cakes - because they help increase serotonin levels, making you feel more comfortable.
A study published in Annales d' Endocrinology also showed that women eat about 400 - 500 calories/day more during their premenopausal days, and most of the added calories come from carbohydrates.
menstrual cravings are a natural response to fluctuations in hormones and blood sugar, not weakness or lack of discipline, says Dr. Nicola Guess, a nutritionist at Kings College London.
What does your cravings signal?
Starch (vesen, pasta): The body needs energy, and starch helps increase serotonin.
Cravings for sweets (carrots, cakes, soft drinks): Hormones that lower blood sugar, making you want to eat sugar to quickly recharge.
Chocolate cravings: Chocolate, especially black, contains magnesium, which helps relax muscles and reduce stress.
Cravings for salty foods (fried potatoes, snacks): Can be a sign of water imbalance, the body needs more sodium.
Cravings for cheese and milk: This is how the body looks for calcium and vitamin D, which help relieve abdominal pain and regulate emotions.
How to eat without worrying about gaining weight?
There is no need to fast or force yourself too much. Listen to your body, but be alert in your choices:
Eat complex carbs such as oats, sweet potatoes, whole wheat spring rolls.
Instead of candy, choose fresh fruit or yogurt.
Eat dark chocolate (over 70% cocoa).
Replace salty snacks with unsalted roasted seeds or burn unsalted corn.
