So it’s that time of the month again, and despite the bloated feeling and the fact that your pants are struggling to stay buttoned, all you can think of is food. Ironic, isn’t it? Well, if it’s any consolation, there is actually scientific reasoning behind all of this. It appears that PMS cravings may not be just some excuse for us to squeeze in a few more snacks each month, but rather a response to a drop in certain chemical levels within our bodies.
Why is it that we crave anything and everything salty and sweet within arm’s reach? According to researchers, these cravings may be linked with a decrease in serotonin that occurs during the pre-menstrual period. It is thought that low levels of serotonin may contribute to other symptoms of PMS as well, such as mood swings. The possibility of a link between food cravings and other PMS symptoms suggests that our bodies crave foods that stimulate the increase in certain internal levels, which in turn eases those unwanted symptoms.
But just because there’s scientific research to back up our desire for indulgence, that doesn’t mean we should give in. Eating a lot of sweet and salty foods (even though it’s exactly what you crave the most) will most likely add to that gross, bloated feeling you already have. So next time Mother Nature comes knocking, think about grabbing these healthy alternatives to fill those same desires.
Fruit: It’s sweet, but healthy and full of natural sugars. Don’t like eating fruit? Try dipping it in some peanut butter or making yourself a delicious fruit smoothie!
Granola bar: Stick to one that is crunchy and not chewy. Often, more chewiness equals more sugar, and that’s what needs to be avoided.
High fiber cereal: Fiber can help with some of the other, not so pleasant, symptoms of PMS.
Carrots and hummus: This is a great way to get something crunchy and salty without tearing open a bag of chips.
If all else fails and you can’t avoid your cravings, do your best to stick to these five important tips:
- Eat multiple, smaller meals throughout the day in order to keep your blood sugar levels more constant.
- Eat complex carbohydrates, as opposed to simple sugars and fats, because they will keep your craving satisfied for longer.
- Try to avoid caffeine. Sorry ladies, but this includes chocolate.
- Drink a lot of water. Loss of blood can cause dehydration.
- Remember to always have some of these healthy alternatives in your kitchen so when the time strikes, you’re ready to combat the cravings.
Sources:
http://premenstrualdisorder.net/ar/pms-cravings.php
http://www.brighthub.com/health/diet-nutrition/articles/18429.aspx
http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/healthy-snack-alternatives
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/971144/pms_diet_what_you_eat_and_dont_eat_pg2.html?cat=5
http://www.cookinglight.com/eating-smart/smart-choices/healthy-snacks-00400000055361/page10.html
http://www.wholegraingourmet.com/recipes/57-treats/52-coconut-almond-granola-bar.html
http://www.sheknows.com/health-and-wellness/articles/814165/most-annoying-things-that-get-blamed-on-pms-1
http://www.everydayhealth.com/pms/stop-cravings.aspx
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/premenstrual_syndrome_treatment_options