Can you eat without gaining weight on your period?

In this blog post we will answer the question “can you eat without gaining weight on your period?”, and explain what period weight gain is, and its causes. We will also suggest some tips on how to reduce weight gain during your period.

Can you eat without gaining weight on your period?

Yes, you may eat without gaining weight during your period, but you must take some precautions in order to do so. Period-related weight gain is common, and it’s normal to acquire a few pounds that disappear after a few days of bleeding.

Is it natural to gain weight during your period?

We’re all familiar with period symptoms like cravings, cramping, and mood changes, but what about period weight gain? This is an issue that is maybe less well-known than the others, but it is not something less prevalent or problematic.

What causes weight gain during your period?

Hormonal changes are the main cause of weight gain during your period. The following are some hormones involved.

• Estrogen: This female sex hormone peaks shortly before your period in the latter half of your menstrual cycle. High amounts of it can cause your body to retain fluid, leading you to feel bloated and, in some situations, causing you to acquire a few pounds of water weight, which can be apparent.
  

Oestrogen also regulates the neurotransmitter called Serotonin which influences mood and appetite. Its levels decline when oestrogen levels drop immediately before your period. As a result, you’ll have a stronger appetite.

Moreover, Because high-carbohydrate diets help the body generate serotonin, low serotonin can boost sugar cravings. When serotonin levels are low, the brain craves sugar. Consuming high-sugar foods might lead to an increase in calorie intake and weight gain.

• Progesterone: Progesterone levels rise in the second half of your cycle causing Swelling or puffiness in the breasts and abdomen which can be caused by water retention. The other reason is that Progesterone is a hormone that increases hunger. Hence raising its level can cause you to overeat during your period.

So, rather than how much you eat, hormones are at the basis of the problem in this case.

How long is it going to last?

The most essential thing to know about weight gain during your period is that it’s temporary in nature, Hence is more accurately described as a weight fluctuation. It’s most noticeable in the week immediately prior to your period, when progesterone levels are at their peak, but it can last into the first few days of your period when oestrogen levels start to rise as well.

Is there anything I can do to reduce bloating during my period?

Bloating during your period can be caused by a variety of factors, including your diet. Diet, lifestyle modifications, and medications can all help to reduce water retention and bloating during your period.

Fortunately, there are a lot of substances that can help, including magnesium. This mineral combats water retention, bloating, and weight gain, making it a must-have during menstruation. Magnesium-rich foods include bananas, dark chocolate, and pumpkin seeds, to name a few natural foods. 

Stock up on healthy foods. If you’re prone to cravings, keep healthy foods on hand. If you’re craving sugar, try eating fruits or protein bars.

Additionally, drink a lot of water. It may sound contradictory, but staying hydrated will help you retain less water. Your body will conserve more fluids if you are dehydrated.

Keep moving. This will help you lose some excess fluid when you sweat while keeping your body in shape. Also, exercise produces endorphins which can improve mood swings and relieve cramps so it’s definitely worth it to keep yourself moving.

What foods can I eat without gaining weight during my period?

To promote digestion and regain what is lost during menstruation, avoid sweets, greasy, and salty foods. Instead, choose healthy, high-fibre meals that include plenty of fruits and vegetables.

When your appetite is sweet or heavy in fat. Make healthy snack and substitution choices. To satisfy salty tastes, consume a bowl of fruits, whole-grain crackers, or nuts to prevent sugar cravings.

Half a turkey sandwich, half a whole-grain toast with peanut butter, or several cubes of cheese with a handful of nuts are all good snacks.

Conclusion

In this blog post we answered the question “can you eat without gaining weight on your period?”, and explained what period weight gain is, and its causes. We also suggested some tips on how to reduce weight gain during your period.

Citation

8 things you should know about period weight gain (a vogel.co.uk)

Do You Burn More Calories on Your Period? Factors to Consider (healthline.com)