If you’ve ever found yourself desperately reaching for chocolate, salty snacks, or even a burger around your period, you’re not alone, and you’re not “just being hormonal.” These cravings are real, and from a medical standpoint, they can tell us a lot about what your body needs during this time of the month.
Let’s break down what your cravings might be revealing about your hormones and how you can respond in a way that supports your body (without guilt).
Craving sugar or chocolate? You might be feeling the effects of a serotonin dip. Estrogen and progesterone fluctuate in the days leading up to your period, which can cause serotonin, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical to drop.
Low serotonin levels are directly linked to mood swings, anxiety, and yes, those urgent sugar cravings. Chocolate is often the go-to because it’s a quick fix, offering both sugar and compounds that mildly enhance mood. Your body is instinctively trying to bring serotonin levels back to balance.
Can't resist salty snacks? Blame shifts in aldosterone and your body’s attempt to manage fluid retention. Hormonal changes around menstruation can cause bloating and water retention.
Your craving for salt may be your body’s misguided attempt to regulate this shift. While small amounts of sodium can help, too much can worsen bloating, so moderation is key.
Craving red meat or high-protein foods? That’s your body signalling low iron and possibly B12 levels, often caused by blood loss during menstruation.
If you’ve been feeling unusually tired or lightheaded in addition to craving a steak or burger, your body might be working hard to replenish what it’s lost.
This is especially common in women with heavier periods. Red meat, lentils, and leafy greens are all excellent sources of iron and your body knows it.
Drawn to fried or fatty foods? Say hello to prostaglandins, compounds released in higher amounts during menstruation to help the uterus contract and shed its lining.
Unfortunately, they can also increase inflammation and pain. Fatty foods can feel comforting in the moment, but some of them (especially processed ones) may actually make cramps worse.
That said, not all fats are bad, omega-3s and healthy fats from foods like avocado or nuts may help ease period-related inflammation.
Experiencing unusual or non-food cravings, like ice or dirt? This might indicate pica, a condition often associated with severe iron deficiency. It’s not just a quirky habit, it’s a medical red flag. If this happens regularly, it’s time to check in with your doctor and possibly get blood work done.
The bottom line? Your cravings during your period aren’t random, they’re messages from your hormones. Understanding what they mean can help you make smarter food choices that genuinely support your body and mood.
So next time you find yourself prowling the pantry at midnight before your period, take a pause. Ask yourself not just what you’re craving but why. Your hormones are talking. All you have to do is listen.