why your cravings go off the rails right before your period - and why you should actually listen.
If you feel like a bottomless pit the week before your period… congratulations, you’re normal.
This is the luteal phase - the era of extra hunger, extra cravings, and extra emotions. Let’s break down the real physiology behind why your appetite changes, how to respond to it, and why restricting during this phase backfires every single time.
1. Progesterone Rises → Insulin Sensitivity Drops
During the luteal phase, progesterone is high. High progesterone = your cells don’t respond to insulin as efficiently.
Translation:
Your body needs more glucose (aka carbs) to do basic tasks.
This isn’t a lack of discipline - it’s an actual metabolic shift.
2. Your Metabolism Increases (Yes, Really)
Research shows resting metabolic rate increases 2–10% in the days before your period. Your body is working harder behind the scenes, so your hunger cues rise accordingly.
Cravings aren’t a character flaw - they’re energy math.
3. Blood Sugar Fluctuates More Easily
Which is why you crave:
• chocolate
• bread
• salty snacks
• literally all the snacks
Your body is asking for quick, accessible fuel.
4. Eating More Here Helps Your Next Cycle
When you honor hunger now, you:
• reduce PMS severity
• stabilize mood
• improve sleep
• support nervous system regulation
• reduce period pain
5. How to Work With Your Body (Not Against It)
Please put down the doritos and reeces….lets do this properly and still enjoy it.
• Pair carbs + protein: GREEK YOGURT + BERRIES + GRANOLA | NUT BUTTER + WHOLE GRAIN CRACKERS + APPLE SLICES | COTTAGE CHEESE + HIGH-FIBER TOAST + CHIA SEEDS | PROTEIN SMOOTHIE W/OATS AND BANANAS
• Include more fiber
• Eat every 3–4 hours
• Don’t force fasting
• Prioritize strength training + walking
Bottom Line
You’re not “broken” because you’re hungry.
You’re hormonal - which is normal, predictable, and manageable with the right strategy.
Want more expert guidance on how to train during your cycle? Schedule a free call with me.
