Why Do I Gain Weight Before My Period?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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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. Period bloating and gastrointestinal issues might also create the sensation of weight gain.

What should I eat a week before my period?

  • Reduce salt. …
  • Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. …
  • Drink plenty of water. …
  • Eat more calcium/low–fat dairy. …
  • Get your vitamin D. …
  • Snack on nuts. …
  • Eat complex carbs. …
  • Eat whole grains.

Why are you more hungry before your period?

Why does it happen? 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

. Carbs and sweet foods may also help relieve the low mood and fatigue that often occur prior to the onset of a period.

Do you need more food on your period?

You may have a slightly higher RMR during the luteal phase before your period. Usually, the changes in metabolic rate aren’t enough to increase calorie burn or require more calorie intake. Plus, some people have cravings or more hunger at this time, which may offset any slight increase.

Why do I crave carbs before my period?

Most women with PMS experience

a drop in serotonin levels

, which triggers cravings for carbs because the body uses carbs to make serotonin. “If cortisol is high and serotonin is low, you’ll seek carbs and fats, but really heavy duty on the simple carbs — sugar-based sweets like chocolate bars,” Peeke says.

How many days before period do you get cravings?

Period-related cravings usually start

around 7 to 10 days before your period

starts. This is also when other PMS symptoms tend to start, like changes to your bowel habits (hellooo period poop and farts), headaches, acne, and bloating. The urge to stuff one’s face usually disappears once your period starts.

What vitamin helps with PMS?

Several small studies have found that taking a

daily vitamin B-6 supplement

may help with many of the psychological symptoms of PMS, including moodiness, irritability, and anxiety.

Do we lose weight during periods?


You will lose this weight in a week following the menses

. This bloating and weight gain is due to hormonal fluctuation and water retention. Monthly variations or fluctuations in weight are common during the period; therefore, it is better not to weigh during this time to avoid confusion and unnecessary anxiety.

Do thighs get bigger before period?

Progesterone activates the hormone aldosterone, which causes the kidneys to retain water and salt. Water retention can lead to bloating and swelling, particularly in the abdomen, arms, and legs. This can give the appearance of

weight gain

. It may also make a person’s clothes feel tighter.

Which exercise is best during periods?

During lighter menstrual days, try

moderate-intensity aerobic exercises like walking or light jogging

. This type of physical activity can reduce bloating (extra water weight) and the pain of cramping. Aerobic exercise helps your blood circulation and the release of “feel-good hormones” called endorphins (en DORF ins).

Is hunger a symptom of period?

Many people experience specific food cravings or a general increase

in appetite

in the days leading up to their menstrual periods. These are common symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which affects over 90 percent of females at some point in their lives.

Do you need more sleep on your period?

PMS can cause some women to

sleep much more than normal

. Fatigue and tiredness around their period, as well as mood changes like depression, may lead to sleeping too much (hypersomnia).

What things we should avoid in periods?

  • Salt. Consuming lots of salt leads to water retention, which can result in bloating. …
  • Sugar. …
  • Coffee. …
  • Alcohol. …
  • Spicy foods. …
  • Red meat. …
  • Foods you don’t tolerate well.

What is period poop?

If you’re having ‘period poops’, it means you’re

experiencing diarrhea, constipation, or foul-smelling poop around the time of your period

. Period poops are pretty normal. Many women experience this monthly change in their toilet habits, especially if they’re prone to emotional changes during their cycle.

What is the difference between period pain and early pregnancy?

Some women will experience

more cramping

as they start to go into menopause. Pregnancy: Early in pregnancy, you may experience mild or light cramping. These cramps will probably feel like the light cramps you get during your period, but they’ll be in your lower stomach or lower back.

Do you get cravings before your period?

Many women experience

intense food cravings in the week or two before their periods

— a symptom of PMS (premenstrual syndrome). Scientists believe fluctuating hormones and serotonin levels during a woman’s cycle are to blame. Hormone changes can cause a drop in blood sugar levels, which leads to sugar cravings.

Sophia Kim
Author
Sophia Kim
Sophia Kim is a food writer with a passion for cooking and entertaining. She has worked in various restaurants and catering companies, and has written for several food publications. Sophia's expertise in cooking and entertaining will help you create memorable meals and events.