Even before it’s that time of the month again, do you start thinking about food and what you want to eat? Well, you are not alone! Period cravings are a real thing and all menstruating women experience them to some degree.
Changes in estrogen and progesterone can cause cravings for high-carb and sweet foods before your period. You might start binge eating all the sugary, salty, junk foods that you can lay your hands on just before periods. However, eating these foods is not only unhealthy but also may result in weight gain. Period cravings usually start around 7 to 10 days before your period starts during the ovulation phase. Instead of waving all cravings goodbye, why not change your perspective on period cravings? Here are some of the healthier ways to deal with period cravings:
1. If you are craving carbs
Instead of refined carbohydrates, like chips, bread, or pasta, choose whole grains. These are food items like brown rice, oats, sweet potato, lentils, etc. For a healthy option, swap spaghetti squash or zucchini zoodles for pasta.
2. If you are craving sweet things
As tempting as it sounds to munch an entire bag of Oreos, sugar can lead to many health issues. Refined sugar causes inflammation in the body, thereby enhancing PMS cramps or any pain associated with the period. Here are some healthier ways to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings during the period:
- Munch on a handful of figs, dates, apricots
- Snack on some fresh grapes
- Sweeten the herbal teas with raw honey
- Enjoy whole-grain pancakes with maple syrup
- Fruit parfait with honey
- Raw energy balls with nut butter, nuts, oats, coconut, etc.
3. If you are craving Chocolate
Most women crave chocolates during their periods. Instead of reaching out to the commercial sugary chocolates, go for the dark chocolates with a high cocoa content of 70% or more. Enjoy 1 or two squares of high-quality dark chocolate, which is rich in antioxidants and minerals to satiate your chocolate cravings.
Instead of beating yourself up for unhealthy food cravings, start enjoying nourishing foods way before your period start. And if you want to snack on something healthy, go for it during your periods!
FAQ’s
2. Why do people crave carbohydrates before their period?
The body seeks quick energy and balance, causing cravings for high-carb foods. Instead of refined carbs (like white bread or chips), the article suggests replacing them with whole grains such as oats, brown rice, or sweet potato to satisfy cravings more healthily.
3. How can one manage a craving for sweets during that time?
To deal with sweet cravings, choose natural options: figs, dates, or grapes. You can sweeten herbal tea with raw honey or try fruit parfaits with a light drizzle of honey.
4. What’s a healthier choice when craving chocolate?
Instead of sugary commercial chocolate, choose dark chocolate with 70% or more cocoa. Enjoy one or two small squares to satisfy the chocolate craving without excessive sugar.
5. Why avoid refined sugars during cravings?
Refined sugar can cause inflammation, which can worsen symptoms like cramps or discomfort. It may also lead to energy crashes and contribute to weight gain over time.
6. What snack ideas help curb cravings?
Try raw energy balls made of nuts, oats, coconut, or nut butter. You can also enjoy fruit parfaits sweetened lightly, or munch on dried fruits like figs or dates.
7. Is it wrong to sometimes satisfy cravings?
Not at all. The article suggests not treating cravings as enemies, but signals. Allow yourself healthier versions of the foods you want, rather than completely denying them.
8. How can whole grains help with cravings?
Whole grains digest slower, providing steadier energy and reducing sudden hunger attacks. They help stabilize mood and reduce sharp spikes in blood sugar.
9. What’s the “change perspective” idea about cravings?
Instead of fighting cravings, see them as internal signals. Prepare healthier alternatives before cravings hit so you have better snack options ready when you need them.
10. Why is portion size important when satisfying cravings?
Having a small, controlled portion (like one or two squares of dark chocolate) helps satisfy the craving without overconsuming sugar or empty calories. It helps balance enjoyment with health.