Cravings to eat during periods: causes and solutions

New Delhi: It is normal to crave chocolate, crunchy chips or sweet foods before or during your period. It is often seen as mood swings, but there are many important reasons behind it. Actually, this desire to eat is related to hormonal changes.

hormonal changes

In the pre-menstrual phase, the levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones change rapidly. Due to these hormonal changes, there is a deficiency of serotonin in the brain, which regulates mood. When there is a deficiency of serotonin, the brain starts demanding foods rich in carbohydrates and sugar, which provides relief to women.

different types of food cravings

chocolate cravings

The desire to eat chocolate is most common during periods. Chocolate contains magnesium, which helps relax muscles and stabilize mood.

Craving salty and crunchy chips

Cravings for pickles or salty snacks are caused by the progesterone hormone, which causes water retention in the body and bloating.

Desire for sweets, pasta or bread

Foods containing refined carbs and sugar increase sugar immediately, due to which lethargy and fatigue of the body goes away for some time.

Craving red meat or heavy meals

Women who have heavy bleeding during periods often have a desire to eat burgers or red meat, which is a sign of iron deficiency in the body.

Ways to satisfy these desires

Instead of sugar or flour, you can consume oats, whole grains, sweet fruits or sweet potatoes. Instead of processed snacks, opt for roasted nuts, pumpkin or flax seeds, makhana. To overcome iron deficiency, consume spinach, beetroot, pulses, dates and pomegranate.

Simple Tips to Get Relaxed

Many times the body mistakes the signals of thirst as hunger, so keep drinking adequate amount of water. Lack of sleep activates hunger hormones, which forces you to eat junk food. Skipping meals can cause blood sugar to become uncontrolled. Take nutritious food on time so that you do not feel hungry suddenly. Regular physical activity releases endorphin hormones in the body, which improves mood and prevents stress-related cravings.