What are common reasons for your period cravings?
- Magnesium: With that time of the month brings a woman's need for an increase in magnesium which is why between ovulation and menstruation we crave chocolate. Dark chocolate, full of antioxidants and known to increase serotonin levels, can be the perfect savior to these cravings. But its important to choose organic dark chocolate with a minimum 80% cacao. You can also look for greens that are loaded with magnesium such as spinach and chard. Note that magnesium can decrease cramping, constipation, insomnia, headaches, water retention, anxiety and sore swollen breasts which could be life changing!
- Sugar: As you've probably noticed through your cycle we experience fluctuations which increase our need for calories on some days...and those calories often tend to be sugar cravings. These intense cravings during menstruation are due to the cleansing of toxins through our bodies and require an increase energy and thus an increase in hunger. But by eating sugary foods during your period, you will cause your blood sugar to spike and when it comes down it will leave you feeling irritable, emotionally moody, and stressed. You can help prevent this feeling by consuming enough protein and healthy fats during the week before prior to your period you can eliminate some of these cravings.
- Salt: Your adrenal glands control many hormonal reactions in the body and minerals are incredibly important to the function of our adrenals glands. When we have a mineral deficiency we crave salty foods. It is important to listen to this craving since it is indicating a deficiency but the type of salt you choose is can dictate how you're going to feel. Sea salt, sea vegetables and water rich vegetables are high in the full spectrum of minerals our body needs and are your best choices. Just know that salty snacks increase water retention, so, if you’re already feeling bloated, it’s only going to get worse.
- Permission & Kindness: When you are having a craving please indulge it! If you want chocolate cake, go ahead and eat it! I have just one requirement while you indulge: Mindfulness. Eat whatever you want, but eat it in a mindful way. If you are present with the food you are craving you will feel satisfied with less, and may even realized that it is not what your body is actually asking for. What I want you to understand is that its important to listen to your hunger signals and provide your body with the nourishment it needs.
- Pampering: One of the best ways to make yourself feel better during a painful period is simply to allow yourself a little self-indulgence and relaxation. Warmth and pressure on your abdomen are both helpful, so it’s a good idea to treat yourself to massages, herbal teas, and even a mani/pedi session. Try rubbing some essential oils on to your neck and temples such as lavender or peppermint. Also, it’s normal to feel more tired during this time of the month, go ahead and give in to that extra sleep.
- Meditation & Yoga: Menstruation is a time to be still, quiet and in my mind meditate. In our busy world it is very tempting to push through without giving our bodies the chance to do what it needs to do which is to slow down and rest our minds. Menstruation requires a lot of energy so it is a good idea to relax more during your period. Maybe running off to the white beaches in Cabo San Lucas to for some yoga is not an option but what about laying a mat down in your room to practice some vinyasa? Or laying down in your living room with your legs up the wall. Know that your body is doing amazing work even when you are still.
- Water: We also need lots of water for those minerals to move through the body and effectively be used in hormonal reactions. When we are dehydrated we often crave salt since extra salt will trigger the kidneys to keep more water in our body. Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily and you'll help your body release water retention – leaving you feeling less bloated and lighter.
- Vitamin B6: Stock up on Vitamin B6! Vitamin B6 helps the brain produce serotonin – that happy-making chemical we just can’t seem to get enough of. It also helps to reduce PMS cravings, increase your energy levels, regulate your mood swings, and even lessen bloating. Plus, it’s found in tons of tasty foods such as fish, potatoes, and banana.