Menstrual Cravings and the Sweet Tooth Mystery: Explained

Why do brownies suddenly feel like soulmates when your period’s around the corner?

If you’ve ever found yourself devouring chocolate or craving carbs like your life depends on it during your cycle, you’re not alone- and you’re definitely not imagining things. 

Menstrual cravings are real, and there’s fascinating science behind that sweet tooth takeover. From fluctuating hormones to comfort-seeking brain chemistry, let’s unwrap the mystery of why your body demands sugar, and what you can do about it.

The Science Behind Cravings During Menstruation

The time before your period starts and after ovulation (luteal phase), your cravings spike the most. At this time, your pre menstrual cravings start to peak, especially for sugary and high-carb foods.

During this phase, your hormone levels fluctuate drastically. Estrogen levels drop and progesterone rises. It leads to mood swings, fatigue, and cravings, of course! Some studies show that serotonin, the ‘feel-good’ neurotransmitter, also dips around this time. In response, the body craves carbs and sugars that boost serotonin production, temporarily lifting your mood.

Reasons Behind Sweet Tooth Becoming Sharper

So, what causes the infamous sweet cravings during period? Apart from serotonin, other physiological changes contribute to this:

• Blood Sugar Fluctuations: Insulin sensitivity drops during PMS, which may lead to erratic blood sugar levels, increasing the urge to consume sugary items for quick energy.
• Magnesium Deficiency: Low magnesium levels are common before periods. This deficiency can trigger your desire to eat more chocolate, nuts, or other magnesium-rich treats.
• Comfort Eating: Cravings may not always arise from nutritional needs. Emotional eating often kicks in due to irritability, anxiety, or low energy during PMS.

Common Foods on the Period Food Cravings List

While every woman can have individual preferences, there are some universal favourites for all of them. It includes: 

• Chocolate: Chocolate is very comforting. It is often craved for its sugar, fat, and magnesium content.
• Salty Snacks: Chips, fries, and popcorn help with water retention and bloating, but too much salt can worsen bloating.
• Carbohydrates: Bread, pasta, and baked goods can help boost serotonin but should be consumed mindfully.
• Ice Cream or Dairy: High-fat, sweet, and creamy – this combo can offer quick relief from mood swings. 

What Experts Say

Nutritionists recommend that you should listen to your body but with awareness. Instead of surrendering to your cravings, you should opt for smart alternatives that satisfy the urge without affecting your health.

Here are some expert-approved options to manage menstrual cravings:

As per the experts, the cravings are real and biologically rooted. Women shouldn’t be ashamed of them but manage them with nutrient-dense options.

How to Manage Cravings Without Guilt

It is important to note that craving during menstruation doesn’t signify weakness. Instead of punishing yourself for eating more or craving ‘bad foods’, take this time to nourish your body and be kind to it.

Here are some simple ways to manage and satisfy menstrual food cravings:

• Simplify Your Meals – Add more whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats in your diet leading up to your period.
• Stay Hydrated – Sometimes thirst is mistaken for hunger. Keep drinking water.
• Organise Your Sleep – Sleep deprivation increases ghrelin (hunger hormone) and reduces leptin (satiety hormone). This makes your cravings worse.
• Exercise Lightly – Moderate workouts like walking or yoga can boost mood and regulate appetite.
• Eat Carefully – Don’t rush through your snacks. Take time to enjoy them. You might find that a few bites are all you need.

When Should You Be Concerned

Since menstrual cravings are normal, if it intensifies, it can signify an underlying imbalance in your body. If you feel out of control most of the time, you should speak to a nutritionist or a healthcare provider or nutritionist to check for hormonal imbalances or deficiencies like iron, magnesium, or B-vitamins.

Read More: What to Eat During Periods and What to Avoid

Wrapping Up

Your body knows how and when to react. During pre menstruation, it signifies hormonal imbalance through cravings. It knows when it needs extra energy, nutrients, or emotional comfort. 

Pre menstrual cravings and sweet cravings during period are a part of this cycle that women have to go through every month. Rather than battling these urges, you can make a healthy space for them with a balance.

If you crave chocolate, icecream, or fries, go for it, just be conscious about the consumption. You can choose healthier alternatives like dark chocolate, popcorn, or roasted chickpeas. These help smoothen and make your menses a healthy period.