You may notice that when it’s that time of the month your energy levels drop, you’re more emotional and you bloat very easily, there might be those soul crushing cramps that make you want to curl up into a ball and cry. This is all completely normal.
Generally, women can find it harder to lose weight compared to men for several reasons, here are just some:
- We have less lean body mass – in other words women don’t naturally have as much muscle as men.
- Hormonal Fluctuations – this means menstrual cycle, menopause and other conditions that can affect a woman’s hormones.
- We store fat differently – Due to our bodies ability to reproduce, our body stores fat in strategic places in order to nourish another human being.
However, when a woman is on her period there are several different effects she may experience that can physically and/or mentally hinder the weight loss journey.
Hormonal weight gain is definitely a thing.. it can be disheartening..
At the end of the menstrual cycle (right before the start of your period) there is a peak in estrogen which can lead your body to retain fluid in turn making you feel bloated and potentially gaining a little weight (which is generally water weight).
Food Cravings?
Shot in the dark here.. most of us probably aren’t craving salad and vegetables when on our period. Generally, it’s the sweet and salty foods filling those thoughts. If you partake in these foods (eat a whole packet of chips, block of chocolate, or a whole pizza.. hey, no judgement here I’m sure we’ve all done it…) you may notice the period weight gained will stick around after your period has ended. If you are trying to lose weight and/or control bloating, staying hydrated is key.
The dreaded B word….. Bloat.
Drinking a lot more caffeine? I know it can be tempting to overload on coffee and caffeinated drinks while on your period because you feel so bloody tired. However, if this is not normal for you it can introduce some gastrointestinal issues (bloating and discomfort). Coffee isn’t the only culprit; Carbonated drinks can also add to this feeling. Not to mention these drinks aren’t super hydrating, actually with soft drinks and diet drinks they can contain sugar and artificial sweeteners which can be worse for bloating. Instead, drink more water, not only is water the greatest anyway it can also help with bloating as it can flush your system which can help combat fluid retention. Get moving, even though you may not feel like it, it can help.
Don’t feel like working out??
Let me guess.. you feel irritable and tired, totally get it.. However even though hitting the gym may be the last thing you want to do, there are studies that say working up a sweat can help normalise your hormones and body. Sweating can help shed the water weight and then there is the endorphin release that can occur with exercise that can alleviate cramps. However, if you really aren’t feeling it then taking a day off is A’OK, although try and make sure you don’t take the whole time off as exercise can be helpful for symptoms.
Just know that if you go through any (or all) of the above during your period, it’s normal. Try to keep the binging to a minimum if you can if your goal is weight loss.
Of course, if any of your symptoms are extreme or you are unsure about anything speak to your doctor.
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