Why do I gain weight during my period? - Day 33
I've always hated getting my period, not only because of the pain I'd get in my lower legs but because I'm feel so tired and bloated and fat and ugly (because at the same time I would break out in pimples) Hormones are crazy! And I could go on about the subject but I'll stick to the causes of weight gain.Number 1 reason is: Water Retention
You may identify with water retention as bloating. It's often a couple of days before and during your period. Constipation may happen too.
What can you stop water retention?
Drink lots of water! I know you may not feel like having more stuff inside your stomach (when it already feels full to the brim!) But the more water you drink, the more it will help cleanse your body and flush out toxins. Also reduce the amount of salty foods, coffee and alcohol you consume before and during your period, as those will only in a sense "dry" you up more. Also try drinking warm water with fresh lemon or lime early in the morning.
Number 2 reason is: Bloating
Bloating is often due to gas in your intestines. It can cause cramps, constipation and just feeling sluggish. It can happen because of the changes happening to your body or because you don't feel like doing much when you get your period and the inactivity can hold that gas in, so to speak.
The best ways to get rid of bloating?
Exercise, I know, it may feel like the absolute LAST thing you want to do. But it helps to move that gas around and come out. (Maybe just be discreet at the gym). Otherwise it may often lead to weight gain.
Make sure you are eating a healthy diet, I know, all you want to eat is chocolate and takeaways and lots of it. Try to eat healthy with complex carbohydrates, lean protein and fiber and avoid foods which are high in sugar.
Eat around six small meals a day to help manage food cravings and helps reduce the bloating.
Number 3 reason: Overeating and Food Cravings
You may tend to overeat during periods, due rise in the metabolism levels. Women might eat about 100 to 200 calories more than what they would regularly eat, especially on days were you are bleeding heavily. Most of you notice, your food cravings happen before and during your period.
The verdict:
Thankfully these cravings aren't going to last forever and so don't feel too guilty if you don't have a blow out, just remember to start a-fresh with the next meal or day.
Number 4 reasons: Drop in Magnesium & IRON Levels
Magnesium: Magnesium levels go down during the pre-menstrual days. which lead to a low production of insulin. When the levels of insulin in the body drop, it creates sugar cravings. This results in over-eating of sugar and in turn weight gain.
Iron: When you have your period you are losing blood. Eating foods rich in iron is important before start of menstrual cycle and during the cycle, as sometimes you'll feel anemic during your period and tend to reach for comforting food.
The conclusion
The average weight gain during period is anywhere between 0.5kg to 2.5kg. The only important thing to remember is that you should not try to worry so much about it. Understand that it will go away once you are done with your period.
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