4 Foolproof Fixes To Beat Hunger Before Your Period

Do you ever find yourself feeling extra hungry before your period and struggling to stick to your diet? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many women experience increased hunger during this time, and it’s perfectly normal. In this blog post, we’ll explore why hunger strikes before your period and provide some practical tips for managing it without derailing your healthy eating habits.

Why You Get Hungry During Your Period:

Your body’s basal metabolic rate (BMR), which is the number of calories you burn at rest, fluctuates throughout your menstrual cycle. These fluctuations are particularly noticeable for women with regular cycles. Before ovulation, your BMR drops to its lowest level, then begins to rise again until your next period. This increase in BMR can lead to increased hunger, sometimes by as much as 11 to 14% or up to 359 extra calories per day.

Strategies to Manage Hunger:

1. Plan Ahead: Take note of when hunger strikes during your cycle and plan your meals accordingly. Knowing when to expect increased hunger can help you make smarter food choices and avoid feeling guilty about eating a bit more during this time.
2. Choose Nutritious Snacks: Stock up on healthy snacks to curb hunger cravings. Having nutritious options readily available can prevent you from reaching for unhealthy junk food when hunger strikes. Think fruits, vegetables, nuts, or yogurt as go-to snacks.
3. Track Your Mood: If you experience mood swings or PMS symptoms before your period, pay attention to how your mood affects your appetite. Eating extra carbohydrates during this time can help improve mood and alleviate symptoms. Opt for carbohydrate-rich snacks like bananas or whole grain crackers to keep your mood and hunger in check.
4. Don’t Fight It: Recognize that increased hunger before your period is a real physical symptom, not just a lack of willpower. Instead of trying to resist it, acknowledge your body’s needs and nourish it with healthy, satisfying foods. Remember, a few extra calories for a few days each month won’t derail your progress.

Conclusion:

Feeling hungry before your period is a normal part of the menstrual cycle, but it doesn’t have to sabotage your diet. By understanding why it happens and implementing strategies to manage it, you can navigate this time with ease. Remember to be kind to yourself and prioritize nourishing your body with wholesome foods.

FAQs:

1. Is it normal to feel extra hungry before my period?

Yes, increased hunger before your period is a common phenomenon due to fluctuations in your basal metabolic rate (BMR). It’s a natural part of the menstrual cycle for many women.

2. Will eating more before my period cause weight gain?

Not necessarily. While you may consume a few hundred extra calories during this time, it’s unlikely to lead to significant weight gain if you maintain a balanced diet overall. Listen to your body’s hunger cues and focus on nourishing foods.

3. How can I differentiate between hunger and cravings before my period?

Pay attention to the timing and intensity of your cravings. True hunger tends to build gradually and is often accompanied by physical symptoms like stomach growling or fatigue. Cravings, on the other hand, are often sudden and specific, such as a craving for chocolate. Opt for nutritious snacks to satisfy hunger, rather than giving in to cravings for unhealthy foods