Do I need to eat more calories when menstruating?

It turns out that BMR in menstruating individuals actually starts decreasing during the bleeding portion of the cycle. It hits its lowest point approximately one week after menstruation begins and then steadily rises again until the start of the next period. The trend in BMR actually mimics this infographic of the endometrial lining very well.

There is good evidence that progestogens, such as progesterone, can stimulate appetite. Levels of this sex hormone reach their peak about one week before menstruation begins, which can help explain pre-period munchies.

In a similar vein, while BMR decreases during menstruation, it rises to its maximum just prior to it. The variations in BMR during a menstrual cycle have been estimated by researchers as roughly 8 percent, or 164 Calories. That is roughly the amount of energy found in 1.5 navel oranges, or ¾ of a Kit-Kat bar. It’s not a huge amount, but it is big enough to impact your hunger leading up to and at the beginning of your period.

Still, we likely cannot blame the menstruation-related hungers completely on physiology. Food is comforting, and when you are feeling crampy or emotional, comfort foods are especially appealing. So, in the end, while you may feel hungry just before, or during, the periods for several societal, physiological, and psychological reasons, you do not need to consume more Calories. There is, however, a small increase in caloric demands during the two weeks leading up to menstruation, although it is small enough that it is likely met through normal fluctuations in diets.

but… do not let this article dissuade you from eating your favorite foods on your period. Dealing with a uterus leaking blood is no fun at all, and you deserve a nice snack