Does Having Your Period Make You Hungry?
It's very common to experience an increase in appetite just before or during your menstrual cycle. The hormone changes associated with the menstrual cycle can make you feel hungrier, and the mood changes that sometimes accompany your period might lead you to crave foods that are high in carbohydrates and/or sugar.

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In this manner, does your period make you gain weight?

It's normal to gain about three to five pounds during your period. Generally, it will go away a few days after your period starts. Period-related weight gain is caused by hormonal fluctuations. It may be the result of water retention, overeating, sugar cravings, and skipping workouts due to cramps.

Secondly, do you need more calories during your period? LOADS of us start to crave comfort food around the time of our periods. But if you did need a little extra assurance it turns out women do actually need more calories when they're menstruating. Research has found that women need between 100 and 300 extra calories a day during the week leading up to their period.

In this manner, why do I want to eat so much before my period?

Some research suggests that changes in the levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone cause cravings for foods rich in carbohydrates and sugars before a period. Compulsive eating before a period can sometimes indicate premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

How do you deal with hunger on your period?

How to deal with period cravings

  1. Eat healthy carbs. When it comes to carbohydrates, the ones we usually crave are those which are also refined, sugary and fatty (looking at you, chocolate-filled doughnut).
  2. Don't skip meals.
  3. Eat a healthy, balanced breakfast (and snacks)
  4. Move your body.
  5. Plan ahead.
  6. Treat yourself to a little bit.
Related Question Answers

Can you lose weight on your period?

The menstrual cycle does not directly impact weight loss or gain, but there may be some secondary connections. On the list of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms are changes in appetite and food cravings, and that can affect weight.

Should you weigh yourself on your period?

During your menstrual cycle
And during this time of the month, you're well advised to take a break from the scale. Natasha Johnson, a Boston-based gynecologist, even told Women's Health you can gain up to five pounds of water weight during the week of your period.
James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.