Real Life Diet Questions Answered

Menstrual cravings

Are there foods that are especially good to eat during periods? I have such cravings for sweets and fats, and, what's worse, is a sense that 'this obviously is what my body needs right now' which means my discipline goes out the window. But I'd like to get better at handling this tricky week next time it comes around. Is there perhaps something women need to eat during menstruation that these cravings are sending the wrong signals for?

Our expert says...

Hi,

There is no doubt that hormones can do funny things to our bodies.  Experiencing cravings is one of these and it is highly frustrating when you are trying to lose weight.

Up to 60% of women can experience cravings during their period. The strength of menstrual cravings can vary from woman to woman, but it does sound like yours are quite strong and regular.  If this is the case, then all you can do is try and prepare for them and then try to minimise the damage!

By this I mean, maybe you could reduce your calorie intake by 100-200 calories a day the week before you know the cravings are going to hit you, so that you can use these up during your period.  Then try to manage your cravings in the best way you can and choose the healthiest option available.  To satisfy a sweet craving, try eating fresh or dried fruit, such as raisins. Buy some different, more exotic fruits and make a luxury fruit salad.  Cook fruit with spices to make it more of a ‘dessert’ and eat it with 0% fat yogurt – you could easily find some nice recipes on the internet.  Or use pure fruit spreads (which are jam without any added sugar) spread on crackers or oatcakes or stirred into natural yogurt. 

Cravings can sometimes be diminished by eating more protein during the day, so this is definitely worth a try.  And some people find that sniffing a bottle of vanilla essence can also help...... but I can’t personally vouch for that one, I’m afraid.

If you increase your exercise during this time, this will help too.  Even if you just do more walking, it all helps to burn off those extra calories. I am a big fan of wearing a pedometer and setting myself daily targets!

Overall, I think you need to try and not get stressed by your cravings, as this will most likely make things worse.  Acceptance and preparation is the best way forward I feel!