Why do we feel so hungry before periods?

[LaFemmeFatale_1]

My usual weight is 49, but I was losing weight and getting close to my target weight of 47, but today I felt awful craving for pizza, so I ordered a big pizza and ate all of it.

Then I checked and seems like I am going to get my period 3 days later. I guess that’s why I wanted to eat. I feel so guilty for eating so much on my way of losing weight.

My friend is the same, she gets awful cravings before periods and she buys lots of sweets, candies and jellybeans about 3-4 days before period. Why’s that?

And do you or your partner experience the same?

[Anonymous]

Many women experience cravings and increased hunger before their periods, and this is thought to be related to hormonal changes in the body. In particular, levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, and these changes can affect appetite and food cravings.

During the premenstrual phase of the menstrual cycle, levels of progesterone increase, which can lead to increased appetite and cravings for high-carbohydrate, high-fat foods. Additionally, changes in blood sugar levels and metabolism during this phase may also contribute to increased hunger and cravings.

It's important to listen to your body's signals and to give yourself permission to eat when you're hungry, but it's also important to make sure you're making healthy food choices and not overeating to the point of discomfort. If you're trying to lose weight, it's a good idea to plan for these cravings and to have healthy snacks on hand to satisfy your hunger without derailing your weight loss goals.

It's also worth noting that not all women experience premenstrual cravings or increased hunger, and the severity of these symptoms can vary from person to person. It's important to prioritize self-care and to seek medical attention if you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or any related symptoms.

[BarryLiverstone]

https://www.healthline.com/health/period-cravings#:~:text=Blame%20it%20on%20the%20hormones,Flo%20comes%20to%20town%2C%20though.

[LaFemmeFatale_1]

Thanks, I didn’t feel like googling.

[BarryLiverstone]

You are welcome. Just know it’s natural and it means you are healthy

[LaFemmeFatale_1]

😇😇

[Genie23]

Progesterone levels, that's why. Our body's estrogen level are highest during ovulation but during period it produces more progesterone hormone which makes us hungry often.. Our body also releases stress hormone which is why we crave sugary stuff more (also food high on carbohydrates).

[NathanDavis]

I must be on my period...

[LaFemmeFatale_1]

[NathanDavis]

[Anonymous]

Pre pregnancy calorie load. You're ovulating and your body wants to get pregnant. So it is triggering a desire for foods that will help you with the early stages of pregnancy. Whether you get pregnant or not; it is still trying to get ready for it.