Why do women suffer with cravings when suffering with PMS?
As many as 85% of women experience at least one symptom of PMS, the disruptive physical and emotional changes that can strike anytime in the last 2 weeks of the menstrual cycle. A common symptom women suffer from is PMS related food cravings, which has the potential to sabotage your diet.
Fortunately, a better understanding of PMS in general and food cravings specifically can keep women from getting caught in a diet-destroying cycle. When food cravings do hit its generally for high fat sugary foods and/or salty foods; like chocolate, sweets, ice cream or crisps.
The hormonal ups and downs that occur throughout a woman's cycle are the major culprits in PMS. As levels of oestrogen go up and down, so do levels of the stress hormone cortisol. And when cortisol levels are high enough, the body turns on its fight-or-flight response, a woman becomes more metabolically charged, and her appetite is stimulated. This, in turn, causes a woman to seek out carbs and fat, the fuels needed for the fight-and-flight response.
Other research has linked PMS to low blood sugar or hypoglycaemia that occurs in the second half of the menstrual cycle.
Whether it's blood sugar or cortisol levels that are out of whack, experts say, eating huge servings of ice cream, chocolate and chips are the worst ways to bring levels back in balance. Proper nutrition and lifestyle habits will achieve a better balance, with long-lasting results.
Is there anything in terms of diet and lifestyle that a woman can do to reduce such cravings?
Eating a balanced diet containing complex carbohydrates, vegetables, protein and healthy fats is key in providing the body the nutrients required to balance symptoms associated with PMS. Healthy fat and protein in particularly help to balance blood sugar levels as they have a slower digestion and make you feel fuller for longer. Foods high in essential fatty acids Omega 3 and Omega 6, such as nuts, seeds and their oils will slow absorption of carbohydrates, stabilize the blood sugar and stop cravings in their tracks. Try a baked sweet potato with tuna and salad for lunch. Drizzle over an organic seed oil such as Udo’s Choice Ultimate Oil blend for healthy fats.
Remember to drink plenty of water, 2 litres a day helps to flush the body out and reduce bloating.
It’s best to avoid all processed sugar if you are suffering from food cravings. Simple sugars increase insulin secretion, which lowers blood sugar. If insulin levels shoot up enough, your appetite for carbs and bad fats increases.
Lifestyle wise, you want to get plenty of sleep, 8hrs per night is ideal. This will make you less tired throughout the day and more likely to exercise and make better food choices. Any form of physical activity should be done for 30min a day, from swimming, brisk walks to jogging, activities that raise the heart rate will lower cortisol levels.
Are there any nutritional supplements that can help?
A well-rounded Women’s multi-vitamin is beneficial to get all the nutrients one needs, as well as, an Omega 3 supplement that contains EPA / DHA, which will help with balancing female hormones. I suggest you to try Cleanmarine for Women which is proven to have great results.
Additionally, chromium is a mineral needed for blood sugar control and metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Liquid chromium supplements are available in health food stores. Take 1-2 drops under the tongue before each main meal.
