It happens to many people: during their period, or a few days before, they get an intense craving for sweets, chocolate or ice cream. No matter how many times you try to distract yourself, the thought of tasting something sweet keeps creeping back. Nearly every woman goes through this experience at some point every month, or at some point in life. It isn’t simply a fondness for sweets — there are scientific and hormonal reasons behind it. Here’s a quick look at why you crave sweets during your period.
Hormonal imbalance and a serotonin dip
Just before a period begins, levels of estrogen and progesterone drop suddenly in the body. This shift reduces the brain’s production of serotonin, the chemical that regulates mood — often called the “feel-good” hormone. When serotonin levels fall, the brain immediately looks for ways to feel better. Sweet or carbohydrate-rich foods help raise serotonin levels quickly, which is why cravings for sweets increase at this time.
Low energy and excess fatigue
Hormonal changes during a period make the body tire quickly and leave it low on energy. Sugar and sweet foods are high in carbohydrates, which provide a quick energy boost once consumed. When the body is fatigued, it signals a craving for sweets as an easy, fast source of energy.
Blood sugar fluctuations
In the days before a period, hormonal changes can slightly affect how insulin functions in the body, causing blood sugar levels to fluctuate. When blood sugar drops, the body creates an intense craving for sweet or calorie-dense foods to quickly restore it.
Increased mental stress
Physical discomfort and mood swings during a period can increase mental stress. During stress, the body releases excess amounts of the hormone cortisol, which heightens cravings for fatty and sweet foods that temporarily calm or comfort the mind.
How to curb cravings the healthy way
Eating too much sugar or refined sweets can worsen period cramps, abdominal pain and fatigue. So when a sweet craving strikes, it’s best to reach for healthier alternatives.
Dark chocolate — Choose dark chocolate with 70% or more cocoa instead of regular milk chocolate. It’s an excellent source of magnesium, which improves mood and eases muscle tension.
Sweet fruits — To curb intense sugar cravings, try dates, raisins, ripe bananas, apples or grapes. Coconut and coconut water are also good options. These satisfy sweet cravings while providing the body with nutrition.
Nuts and seeds — Almonds, cashews or pumpkin seeds help keep blood sugar levels stable, reducing sudden urges to eat sweets.
Complex carbohydrates — Some carbohydrate-rich foods keep you feeling full for longer, which also reduces the tendency to crave sweets. Try oats or brown rice during your period days — these help sustain energy in the body for longer periods.