During the 'Red Mark' of every month, one of the things that women often experience is the increase of their cravings for ice cream, cakes, chocolates, spaghetti, lasagna, and bread. But do you know that your cravings are not purely psychological? Experts have biological reasons for it.
Lisa Moskovitz, CEO, RD, CDN, who is a Weight Management, Eating Disorder & Sports Nutrition Specialist, shared on The Thirty Byrdie, "We know that right before, during, and even after menstruation, there are a lot of hormonal changes occurring in the body."
The expert also added how these hormonal changes cause the rise and fall of progesterone and estrogen. This process creates a huge change in a person's metabolism, which is a process where the body converts food into energy that it needs to maintain life.
"Numerous studies show that right before and up to two weeks before menstruation, your metabolism may be functioning at its peak," Moskovitz added. Given this reason, the body would tend to crave more sugar and carbohydrates as compared to other days of the month. It needs more calories to burn and sugar to get energy from.
During the pre-menstruation period, the Basal Metabolic Rate or BMR increases of about 10 to 20 percent, that's why a woman tends to burn more calories. But as one begins her period, BMR slowly goes back to normal again; same goes with the body's rate to burn calories, Moskovitz further explained.
Unfortunately, the increase of BMR and cravings can pose a danger as it can trigger a person to over-consume food, according to The Sun.
Terri-Ann Nunns, the co-founder of The Happy Healthy Mum Plan and the Terri-Ann 123 Diet Plan, warns women not to go over the limit when they give in to their cravings. She says that giving in to a lot of unhealthy, fatty and sugary foods won't help the body to feel better. It would only make you feel worse. "Reaching for 'comfort roods' leaves you feeling sluggish and lowers your mood."
So, experts advised women to choose healthier alternatives when they are craving something sweet and delicious. Fruits are way better and healthier option.
If you are craving for a cheeseburger, why not try to eat those leafy greens such as collard greens, Swiss chard, kale, and spinach partnered with your favorite dip? Bananas, watermelon, oranges, and broccoli are also good for you. Doing so would not just be beneficial for your menstrual cycle, but it is also good for your overall health too.
