How To Curb Those PMS Cravings

Many women experience them. In fact it's one of those things we joke about at a certain time of the month. We need chocolate! Pass the cookies! Maybe a plate of french fries will do the trick? Sad (or funny) but true.

So why do we feel the need to stuff our faces with unhealthy foods at that certain time every month? PMS cravings come for a few different reasons. Probably the most important reason is our body's response to a decrease in serotonin.

This dip in serotonin levels is the same thing that is responsible for some of the mood swings and depression commonly associated with PMS. One thing that helps to raise serotonin levels and give you a boost of good feeling is to eat simple carbohydrates, hence the craving for these types of foods.

So why not just give in and satisfy those cravings? Unfortunately, the high that comes after eating simple carbohydrates just as quickly dips back down to and even lower low. It's a fast fix, but very short lived. Also, if you're already feeling bloated or crampy, eating unhealthy foods may make you feel even worse physically, not to mention the guilt you may feel if you try to stick to a healthy diet.

Some women also have problems with weight gain due to their PMS cravings. Giving in month after month can take its toll and all those extra calories can add up. When you're not at your ideal weight it can be harder than ever to feel self confident and healthy at a time when you need all the help you can get for your emotional well being.

But what can be done? Just ignoring the cravings and going about your normal business takes more self control than many of us have. What you need to do is to have a plan of action and work toward prevention of the cravings, instead of just trying to fight them off. But how?

Keeping your blood sugar levels balanced will help to keep you from needing the almost instant boost that comes from sweet or starchy foods. Therefore, if your blood sugar levels are right, you should not experience so many, or such severe cravings.

How can you keep the right blood sugar levels?

Instead of eating three large meals a day, opt for six smaller meals. This gives your body constant fuel so you don't feel those hunger pangs.

Choose complex carbohydrates instead of simple ones. Whole grains will give you longer lasting energy boosts and are better for you for many other reasons, too.

Cut back on sugar and fats. Especially sweet foods will give you that quick high, but the low that follows it will likely have you craving more of those fast acting, bad foods.

By maintaining the proper blood sugar level and avoiding foods that contribute to other PMS symptoms, you can curb those PMS cravings and have a more normal and less annoying period.

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