Why You Crave More Before Your Period (and Why It’s Totally Normal)

I hope your summer is going well. In a time where all were hearing online is about being in shape for the summer, and what diet to try next, I though I would offer a little perspective so you could give yourself some gentle compassion if you just cant figure out your cravings.

 

I used to live in a mindset where calories had to be controlled no matter what—same number every day, no exceptions. Back when I was deep in my eating disorder, it didn’t matter if I was exhausted, emotional, or bleeding—I had to stick to “the plan.”

 

I didn’t understand how my body worked. I didn’t know that as a woman, my energy needs, hunger cues, and cravings actually change depending on where I am in my cycle.

 

So when I found myself thinking things like:

 

 

 

 

…I would spiral. I’d feel ashamed, frustrated, and like I was failing.

 

But now I know: I wasn’t failing. I was just misinformed.

So today, I want to help you understand your cravings and hunger with more compassion and science—and give you some tools to feel supported through it all.

 

Why You Need More Nourishment Before and During Your Period: During the second half of your cycle (after ovulation), your body is doing a lot behind the scenes: increasing progesterone, preparing for a possible pregnancy (even if you’re not trying to get pregnant), and using more energy overall.

Here’s what that means for you:Your metabolic rate increases, which means you burn more calories—your body literally needs more fuel.Your blood sugar is less stable, especially if you’re under-eating, stressed, or not sleeping well.

Your serotonin and dopamine naturally dip, which can drive cravings for carbs and sugar (they help lift these neurotransmitters temporarily!).

 

So if you’ve ever wondered “Why do I feel out of control this week?”, the truth is—you’re not out of control. Your body is just asking for support.

 

Why Sugar Cravings Are Worse for Some Women Than Others 

 

If your cravings feel intense or overpowering, here’s why that might be:

 

Hormonal Imbalances
Low progesterone, estrogen dominance, or poor insulin sensitivity can all contribute to stronger cravings, mood swings, and appetite dysregulation in your luteal phase (second half of your cycle).

 

Gut Microbiome Imbalances
Certain strains of bacteria in the gut literally feed off sugar—and can trigger cravings to ensure they’re fed. If you’ve dealt with bloating, yeast overgrowth, or IBS symptoms, this could be playing a role.

 

Under-eating Earlier in the Cycle
When we restrict in the follicular phase (first half of the cycle), it often backfires later. Your body is wise—it will always try to get what it needs eventually, even if it means louder cravings later on.

 

Keep these blood-sugar balancing, hormone-supportive options on hand to nourish without deprivation:

 

Hard-Boiled Eggs + Hummus
A protein-fat combo that keeps blood sugar steady and satisfies savory cravings.

 

Dates Stuffed with Almond Butter & Sea Salt
Sweet, mineral-rich, and deeply satisfying—perfect for when you want a treat but want to keep things balanced.

 

Pumpkin Seeds + Dark Chocolate Chips
Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc and magnesium, which help with mood and cramps. A little dark chocolate supports serotonin—and it’s delicious.

 

Protein Smoothie with Flax & Berries
Blend plant-based protein, flaxseed, frozen berries, and almond milk for a fiber-packed, blood sugar-stabilizing snack.

 

Avocado Rice Cakes with Turkey or Tofu
Satisfies crunchy, salty cravings while providing protein, healthy fats, and slow-digesting carbs.

 

Your body is not the enemy—it’s your biggest ally. And when you learn to listen to it, everything changes.

 

You don’t have to live in fear of your cravings or try to control your body into submission. You can work with it, nourish it, and begin to feel safe inside of it again.

 

If this resonates, hit reply and let me know. I’d love to hear what this time of the month brings up for you and how I can support you better.

 

With love,
Kelley