Period Cravings

Menstruation and food cravings

Have you ever felt those cravings hit you hard when you are on your period? Are those yearning for a bar of chocolate and a handful of wafers real? Well, yes period cravings and hunger are real and there are reasons - valid and scientifically proven reasons.Food cravings are just one of the symptoms of PMS (premenstrual syndrome). A study suggests that changes in the hormones estrogen and progesterone cause cravings for high-carbs and sweet food before or during your period. 

Certain cravings may be happening for a reason and your body may need some calories. This is not to say that you should be overindulging on the daily, ofcourse. But if your body is begging you for something different, don't stop yourself eating more than you might normally. Swapping your cravings with a healthier substitute or limiting those desirable foods can help your body what it's screaming for without making you feel bad. Instead of simple carbs like chips and pastas go for the complex ones like beans and lentils. If you just need to satisfy your sweet tooth, go ahead with some fruit and yogurt or smoothies. And if you need chocolates, then stick to dark chocolates. 

So, it's ok if you are stuffing yourself with lots of snacks. Instead of beating up your cravings, listen to your body and give it what it needs. Stop apologizing for wanting ice-creams and pizzas. If that means once a month then so be it.