You devoured your lunch and you’re rather satisfied… until you’re not. You seem to have a hankering for your favourite ice-cream, so you decide to get yourself some. Somehow, it was too sweet and didn’t quite hit the spot. Perhaps something salty might do the trick? But why are you still so hungry, you might wonder? It’s alright. Your period is due and what you’re experiencing is a classic case of PMS.
Premenstrual Syndrome or PMS, can manifest in a number of different ways for different women, but undoubtedly, the most common outcome women will attest to, are those dreaded mood swings, and cravings! You may just want to give in to those hankerings to make yourself feel better, and we won’t blame you if you do. But how much is too much? After all, those calorie-laden foods do come with a drawback—unnecessary weight gain. But what if you could binge without guilt? We have just the thing. Here are five healthy alternatives to beat those PMS cravings:
1. Sweet Nothings
The craving for sweets is heightened when you are experiencing PMS. This is due to the excess production of hormones. However, instead of devouring the whole chocolate bar, it would be best to look at some alternatives like fruits, and dark chocolate – which is definitely a healthier option. In fact, there are a number of keto-friendly, or vegan bean-to-bar chocolates you could try. The possibilities are delicious.
2. Fibre Away
Opting for fibre-rich foods such as almonds, apples, dates, peaches, and pears will help a great deal in reducing bloating and bowel irritation. These also help in keeping your stomach full so you won’t experience those random hunger pangs.
3. Decaf Delights
A refreshing cup of coffee might just help reboot some of that lost energy, right? No! With PMS, that cuppa might just have the opposite effect. You need extra rest during PMS, and caffeine may very well come in the way of that. Excess consumption may cause you to feel irritated and grumpy. However, a small cup of coffee is okay, if you do need that fuel to start your day. But added to the no-go zone is alcohol. An excess consumption of alcohol has the ability to make you over-indulge in your cravings, so it is best avoided. Instead, herbal teas, especially chamomile and peppermint, would help you feel more at ease
4. Fat Chance
Your body needs some healthy fats to help deal with those fluctuating hormones. Avocados (as a great guacamole dip, minus the salty chips), chickpea (for delicious hummus with some healthy carrot and cucumber stick), or a handful of almonds, are some easy snacks you could munch on to beat the PMS cravings. Additionally, make sure you begin your day with protein-rich breakfast so that your cravings are kept in check for most of the day!
5. Iron Maiden
A period means a significant loss of blood, so it pays to eat foods rich in iron. Moreover, iron helps to keep your energy levels up, and your brain sharp. Make sure to include iron-rich foods like lentil soup, and an assortment of nuts to keep those cravings in control.
Now while it’s advisable to binge wisely, it does not mean you cannot indulge every once in a while. It all depends on how you balance it all out, so go nuts!