There are many things that happen in the body and mind of women, especially during menstruation. So, you are not alone in wondering what changes you experience physically and emotionally during the days of your cycle.
As if the cramps or pain weren't enough, women seem to gain weight during these days. "This is very common," says gynecologist Christine Greves. A study found that women tend to gain more weight during menstruation compared to other normal weeks and this weight goes up to five kilograms.
What causes period weight gain?
There are several reasons that affect this condition, but gynecologists list some of the main ones.
-You are retaining too much fluid
During menstruation, the body experiences fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels. "This can lead to water retention, which affects the feeling of bloating and a temporary weight gain," says doctor Meleen Chuang.
-You have more grandchildren than usual
There is actually a hormonal reason why during the days of the cycle, women have more cravings for chips, ice cream and other unhealthy foods. "Progesterone can stimulate your appetite," explains gynecologist Greves. This hormone peaks about a week before the start of your period, which is the time when your mind is on food all the time and you eat more as a result.
-You don't do much training in the gym or hiking in nature
Having a hard time feeling motivated to get off the couch and hit the gym, especially on cycle days? Bloating, cramps and lethargy cause women to skip exercise that can lead to calorie burn, so this is all the more motivation for potential weight gain.
When is menstrual weight normalized?
There is no written rule for when period weight gain tapers off. But, despite this phenomenon, experts suggest that you maintain a healthy diet, go for walks and follow an acceptable lifestyle.
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