Do Calories don’t Count When You’re On Your Period?

13 August 2024

Hello Ziddis! Today’s blog is especially for those with a monthly subscription to annoying cramps and blood flow. Yes! Periods. That can be one of the most annoying phases of the month. Periods can be challenging especially when it comes to maintaining your regular health and wellness routine. With PMS symptoms like fatigue, cramps, and mood swings, it’s understandable if diet is the last thing on your mind. But there are tips and tricks to make the most of your periods instead of abandoning your fitness goals during that time of the month. It’s a common myth that calories don’t count when you’re on your period, but the truth is, they do.

Calorie Intake During Periods

Your body’s energy levels drop during periods and need to be replenished more often due to hormonal changes, which can lead to increased hunger and cravings. The rise in metabolism accounts for about 100-300 extra calories per day—so while your body might burn a bit more, it doesn’t give you a free pass to binge eat without consequences.

Diet Tips During Menstruation

Craving comfort foods during your period is natural so long that you make sure it is right and healthy for your body. For sweet cravings compromise with some dark chocolate or a warm bowl of oatmeal topped with berries and nuts to give you the best of a blend of fibre, antioxidants, and healthy fats. The key is to listen to your body and respond to its signals with nourishing foods. Instead of indulging in junk food, which can lead to bloating and sugar crashes, opt for nutrient-dense choices that satisfy cravings while keeping your energy levels stable. Focus on balance—allow yourself to enjoy a treat, but also include foods that provide lasting fuel.

Best Foods to Eat While Menstruating

What you eat during your period can greatly affect how you feel. Certain foods can help ease your symptoms and keep your energy levels stable.

Iron-rich food to replenish your iron levels, fight fatigue and support muscle functions. Try adding some spinach, beans, and lean red meat to your diet.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce cramps. Next time pick some salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
Magnesium-rich foods can help relax your muscles and ease cramps. Here’s where you can justify all the dark chocolate you eat. You can also have bananas, and leafy greens into your diet.
Whole Grains like oats, quinoa, and brown rice are energy givers and help with mood swings, energy levels and metabolism.
Hydrating Foods such as cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges are key to reducing bloating and fatigue. You can add some green tea or mint tea to your day to feel better.

Foods to Avoid During Menstruation

While it’s important to focus on nutrient-rich foods, some foods might mess your period symptoms and should ideally be avoided but if not then at least consumed in moderation.

Caffeine might seem like a good idea but it can increase anxiety, irritability, and bloating.
Salty Foods can lead to water retention and bloating
Sugary Treats, while it’s natural to crave sweets during your periods, they cause blood sugar turbulence which might lead to mood swings and fatigue.
Alcohol can increase inflammation and worsen cramps
Processed Food is high in unhealthy fats and preservatives which add to bloating.

Best Supplements to Take During Periods

If you’re looking for an extra boost during your period, certain supplements can help support your body’s needs.

Iron Supplements: These help especially if you have heavy flow periods, anemia or iron deficiencies. They help in maintaining an ideal iron level and prevent fatigue.
Magnesium: Magnesium can help ease muscle cramps and reduce PMS symptoms like mood swings and irritability so it is important to add Magnesium supplements to your cart.
Vitamin B6: Vitamin complex serves various purposes during PMSing phase and having vitamin supplements can lead to relaxing those mood swings and periodical depression.
Fish Oil: As mentioned above, omega-3-rich foods are best for periods but if you are not getting enough of it then Omega-3 fatty acids and fish oil supplements can help.

Final Thoughts

The entire month is marked with phases in which your mood and body keep changing but that should not force you to abandon your health goals. With this guide, you can understand what you need to add to your plate which helps you relax through this phase. Pop some supplements to make sure you are getting all the needed nutrients and not missing out on any. If you feel extreme issues during periods, keep a check and consult a doctor for the same. By observing your issues you will be able to understand what is the most idealistic thing to do to stay put on your healthy life journey!