Menstrual food cravings food binge

Menstrual food cravings are real… and sometimes downright frustrating. It’s almost like the body throws a mini tantrum every month, making sweets and carbs suddenly the most important things on the planet. Some say it’s just a lack of willpower or “women being emotional,” but that couldn’t be further from the truth. These cravings are driven by serious biological reasons that deserve a little respect. So, what’s going on exactly? And can anything actually help manage those urges without feeling like a constant battle?

What’s Really Behind Those Cravings? It’s Not Just in Your Head

The real culprit behind menstrual food cravings is hormones. Hormones rule the menstrual cycle, and they do a lot more than just regulate ovulation.

  1. In the week or two before a period, estrogen drops sharply while progesterone rises.
  2. This shift influences appetite and mood in powerful ways.
  3. Low estrogen and higher progesterone can make the brain crave high-carb and sweet foods.
  4. Here’s why: those foods help the brain produce serotonin, the “feel-good” chemical that can lift mood and calm stress.

So, yes, it’s science telling the brain to grab that chocolate bar or bag of chips. And honestly, who can blame it?

The Emotional Side of PMS and Food

It’s not just hormones messing with the cravings. There’s an emotional angle, too. PMS often brings feelings of irritability, sadness, or anxiety. Food, especially carbs and sweets, becomes a quick way to feel better.

  • Eating starchy or sugary snacks triggers serotonin release, giving a temporary mood boost.
  • This can feel like a small moment of calm in the emotional chaos of PMS.
  • Cravings can feel urgent or overwhelming because the body is trying to soothe itself.

When Do These Cravings Usually Start? 

Most people notice menstrual food cravings start about 7 to 10 days before their period arrives. This is also when:

  • Other PMS symptoms like bloating, headaches, and mood swings kick in.
  • Appetite increases and the urge to snack more often becomes real.

The cravings usually fade once the period starts, so it’s a temporary phase. Even… if it feels like forever when you’re in the middle of it.

Listen to Your Body

It’s totally okay (actually important) to listen to your body and let yourself indulge a little before your period. The body might need extra calories or specific nutrients.

That doesn’t mean bingeing every day, but:

  • If your body is telling you to eat more, it’s not the time to fight it.
  • You can find balance by pairing treats with nourishing foods.
  • Ignoring cravings can sometimes backfire, making them stronger later.

So, don’t beat yourself up for wanting a cookie or some pasta. It’s part of the process.

When Those Cravings Make You Feel Worse: What to Do

Sometimes, those go-to snacks actually leave you feeling worse after the initial sugar rush.

  • Refined sugars and simple carbs give a quick serotonin spike but then cause a crash.
  • This crash can leave you tired, moody, and craving more food.

A smarter move? Swap those quick fixes for options that satisfy but keep energy steady. Here’s how:

  • If it’s carbs you crave:
    Choose complex carbs like oats, brown rice, beans, and lentils. They release energy slowly and keep serotonin more balanced.
  • If chocolate is calling:
    Dark chocolate is the way to go. Just a square or two can hit the spot and comes with antioxidants.
  • Sweet tooth but want less sugar:
    Try fresh fruit, Greek yogurt with honey, or a small handful of nuts.

How Garcinia Cambogia Might Help with PMS Cravings

Garcinia cambogia fruits

Now, here’s something many people don’t know: Garcinia cambogia, a tropical fruit extract, has been used to help curb appetite and manage weight and some say it’s useful during PMS too.

The secret is in the compound called hydroxycitric acid (HCA). Here’s what it’s thought to do:

  • Suppress appetite by possibly increasing serotonin levels, which helps reduce those urgent cravings.
  • Block fat production by stopping the enzyme citrate lyase that turns carbs into fat.
  • Support metabolism so the body processes food more efficiently.

In other words, garcinia cambogia benefits might make it easier to say no to snacks that don’t serve the body well during PMS.

Real Talk: What People Notice About Garcinia Cambogia Benefits

While research is still growing, many people who use garcinia cambogia supplements report:

  • Less intense hunger and cravings during PMS.
  • Feeling more in control around food.
  • Better ability to stick to healthier eating habits when cravings hit.

But remember, garcinia cambogia benefits don’t work alone, it’s best combined with:

  • A balanced diet
  • Regular exercise
  • Good sleep habits

And definitely check with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement.

Tips to ‘Tame’ Those Menstrual Food Cravings for Good

Managing menstrual food cravings isn’t just about supplements. There are simple lifestyle moves that really help:

  • Eat regularly. Skipping meals can make cravings worse.
  • Stay hydrated. Sometimes thirst masks itself as hunger.
  • Manage stress. Relaxation techniques like meditation or gentle exercise can help.
  • Get moving. Exercise boosts mood and helps balance hormones.
  • Prioritize sleep. Poor sleep worsens cravings and mood swings.

Try putting a plan in place around 7 to 10 days before your period to include these habits, it can make a difference.

When to Talk to a Doctor

Most cravings are normal, but if any of the following happen, it’s worth checking in with a healthcare professional:

  • Cravings or hunger that last all month.
  • Cravings linked to ongoing depression, anxiety, or stress.
  • Significant weight changes because of eating habits.
  • Feeling anxious or distressed about food.
  • Past or current eating disorders affected by PMS.

To Sum It Up

Menstrual food cravings are real, hormonal, and emotional and that’s totally understandable. Instead of fighting them or feeling guilty, it helps to recognize what’s going on and respond with kindness.

Choosing healthier swaps, listening to the body’s signals, and maybe trying supplements like garcinia cambogia can make the pre-period days easier to get through.

Remember, cravings don’t have to control the month so there are ways to manage them and feel more balanced.