Why munchies during period

Luckily, science has a way to test that! Basal metabolic rate BMR is the amount of energy our bodies use when we are at rest. If menstruation causes increased energy demands, that should be reflected in the BMRs of people during their periods. But most of the time when people say calorie regardless of capitalization , they really mean kilocalorie, a. It turns out that BMR in menstruating individuals actually starts decreasing during the bleeding portion of the cycle.

It hits its lowest point approximately one week after menstruation begins and then steadily rises again until the start of the next period. The trend in BMR actually mimics this infographic of the endometrial lining very well.

The week it spends expelling this lining is, by comparison, almost a vacation. As far as our bodies are concerned, the energy-intensive portion of the menstrual cycle is days 8 to 28, when it is building literal flesh, not days 1 to 7 when that endometrial tissue is broken down and expelled. Uterine contractions occur throughout all stages of the menstrual cycle but become especially strong during menses.

Ostensibly these contractions help shed the uterine lining, although they also happen to feel rather painful. The question remains then, if not due to a raised BMR, why do we experience increases in appetite just before, or during, our periods? There is good evidence that progestogens, such as progesterone, can stimulate appetite.

Levels of this sex hormone reach their peak about one week before menstruation begins, which can help explain pre-period munchies. Try to eat healthfully throughout the month. Cut back on foods containing refined sugars. Load up on high-fiber foods such as fruits , vegetables , beans, seeds , and whole grains. Fiber helps you feel fuller longer. Instead, buy ingredients to make healthy snacks with a variety of textures and flavors.

When the urge to binge hits, drink a glass of water infused with fresh fruit or mint. It may be enough to curb your cravings. Chewing gum or eating a lollipop may also help. For sweet cravings, whip up a fresh fruit and yogurt smoothie or a sweet potato topped with a small pat of butter and a teaspoon of brown sugar.

Another great option is a mix of curried nuts and fruits, such as this curried nuts and apricots recipe from Family Circle. Make healthy lifestyle choices Stress may lead to emotional eating around your period.

Exercising , practicing relaxation techniques , getting regular sleep , and maintaining a positive outlook can help manage stress. Join a support group such as Overeaters Anonymous. You may be able to implement some of their successful treatment strategies as well. When should I call a healthcare professional? Appetite suppressants or other medications may also be used. Read this next. Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph.

Medically reviewed by Nicole Galan, RN. Medically reviewed by Carolyn Kay, M. This phase requires a higher demand of energy coming from nutrients and food to help rebuild the uterine lining," she says.

Agyeman continues on to say that research indicates there are certain foods which may even help alleviate certain period symptoms , as well as impacting on your energy levels and mood.

Go for snacks like hummus and veggies or whole-grain crackers, popcorn, cottage cheese, an apple with peanut butter, Greek yogurt with honey and berries. And during that specific I-want-to-eat-the-entire-world-phase?

Restriction and deprivation eventually may lead to overeating , which is followed by guilt and more restriction — it's a cycle," Agyeman continues.

If what you really want is chocolate for example, then eat the chocolate. If you can eat it mindfully and slow down and really enjoy the flavour and texture, you might enjoy it even more. Like this article? Sign up to our newsletter to get more articles like this delivered straight to your inbox. Follow Jennifer on Twitter and Instagram.