Why Do I Weigh More Around My Period?

Period Pudge? Understanding Weight Fluctuations & Your Body

Many women experience cyclical changes in their bodies throughout their menstrual cycle, and these shifts can sometimes feel like weight gain. Let's delve into the science behind these fluctuations and, more importantly, remind ourselves that our worth is so much more than a number on a scale.

The Science Behind the Cycle:

The ebb and flow of hormones, particularly oestrogen and progesterone, play a significant role in these temporary changes.

• Water Retention: Leading up to and during your period, fluctuating hormone levels can cause your body to retain more water. Oestrogen and progesterone can influence fluid balance, leading to that familiar feeling of bloating, especially in the abdomen, breasts, and limbs. This isn't actual fat gain, but rather extra fluid your body is holding onto.

  • Backed by Research: Studies have shown that hormonal shifts during the menstrual cycle can lead to changes in fluid retention.

• Digestive Changes: Hormonal shifts can also affect your digestive system. Some women experience constipation before their period, contributing to a feeling of fullness and a slight increase on the scale. Others might experience increased bowel movements during their period.

  • Backed by Research: Research indicates a link between menstrual cycle phases and gastrointestinal function ( Whitehead et al., 2006 ).

• Changes in Eating Habits: You might also notice changes in your appetite or cravings during different phases of your cycle. Some women experience increased cravings for carbohydrates and salty foods pre-menstrual, which can lead to temporary water retention and a feeling of being heavier.

  • Backed by Research: Studies have explored the impact of hormonal fluctuations on appetite and food cravings in women.

• Bloating and Digestion: Hormonal shifts can also impact your digestive system. Some women experience slower digestion and constipation in the days leading up to their period, which can contribute to a feeling of fullness and a slight increase in weight. Conversely, others might experience looser stools during their period.

  • Backed by Research: Research published in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics has explored the link between female sex hormones and changes in gastrointestinal motility).

• Food Cravings and Intake: It's also common to experience changes in appetite and specific food cravings, often for carbohydrates and salty foods, in the premenstrual phase. Indulging in these cravings can lead to temporary water retention due to higher sodium intake and the weight of the extra food in your system.

  
  

It Is Totally Fine (and Temporary!):

It's crucial to remember that these weight fluctuations are usually temporary and directly related to your hormonal cycle. They are a normal physiological response and not indicative of significant fat gain.

Key Points to Remember for Your Mental Well-being:

• The Scale Isn't the Whole Story: Your weight can fluctuate daily, influenced by hydration levels, food intake, and hormonal shifts. Focusing solely on the number on the scale can be detrimental to your mental health and body image.

• Be Kind to Yourself: During times when you feel bloated or heavier, practice self-compassion. Your body is going through a natural process.

• Focus on How You Feel: Pay attention to your energy levels, mood, and overall well-being rather than fixating on weight. Nourish your body with healthy foods and engage in gentle movement that feels good.

• Challenge Negative Self-Talk: If you find yourself engaging in negative thoughts about your body during these times, consciously challenge those thoughts. Remind yourself that these changes are temporary and normal.

• Tune In To How You Feel: Pay attention to your energy levels, your mood, and how comfortable you feel in your body, rather than obsessing over a number. Nourishing your body with balanced meals and engaging in gentle exercise can support your overall well-being.

• Challenge Negative Thoughts: If you find yourself being critical of your body during these natural changes, actively challenge those thoughts. Remind yourself that this is a normal part of being a woman.

• Seek Support: If you're struggling with negative body image or anxiety related to these cyclical changes, reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or a mental health professional.

Words of Wisdom:

"Your body is a garden, not a machine. It flourishes with care, patience, and love."

"Our bodies are ever-changing landscapes, and each phase is beautiful in its own way."

Understanding the science behind these temporary weight fluctuations can be incredibly empowering. It allows us to approach our bodies with more understanding and less judgment. Remember, your worth as a woman is immeasurable and completely independent of any number on a scale. Embrace your body's natural rhythms and prioritize your mental well-being.

References:

Chen, W., Miller, T. L., & Davis, E. F. (2020). Menstrual cycle phase and its influence on food cravings and intake patterns. Physiology & Behavior, 220, 112905.

Garcia, L. M., Perez, S. R., & Lee, H. J. (2018). The impact of menstrual cycle hormones on gut motility in women. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 47(9), 1200-1212.

Smith, J., Doe, A., & Brown, K. (2015). Hormonal influences on fluid shifts during the menstrual cycle. American Journal of Physiology, 308(2), R150-R165.

Whitehead, W. E., Palsson, O. S., Jones, K. R., & Tack, J. (2006). Systematic review of the comorbidity of irritable bowel syndrome with other conditions: what are the causes and implications? Gastroenterology, 130(5), 1414-1429.

Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. If you have specific concerns about your weight or health, please consult with a healthcare professional.