Here’s why you crave chocolate while on your period
Most women are familiar with experiencing an overwhelming craving for chocolate every month when they’re on their period. In this article we’ll dive into the science and psychology of cravings to understand why it happens and what can be done to manage it in the best way possible.
The science behind the craving
Women experience significant hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. There are two main hormones that play a key role in regulating several psychological processes, they are estrogen and progesterone. These hormonal fluctuations, directly correlate with chocolate cravings.
Chocolate contains substances that can affect the brain and contribute to the craving. One such substance is serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood. During the menstrual cycle, serotonin levels can fluctuate, and chocolate consumption can temporarily increase serotonin levels. This rise in serotonin can contribute to an improved mood and a sense of well-being, which can be particularly appealing during a time when hormonal imbalances can cause mood swings and irritability.
Another neurotransmitter affected by chocolate is endorphins. Endorphins are natural chemicals that act as pain relievers and mood enhancers. Chocolate consumption triggers the release of endorphins, leading to feelings of pleasure and even a mild euphoria. The temporary relief from discomfort associated with menstruation that endorphins provide can contribute to the desire for chocolate during this time.
In addition, chocolate is rich in magnesium, a mineral that plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including mood regulation. Magnesium levels may fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, and deficiencies in magnesium have been associated with increased premenstrual symptoms. Chocolate's magnesium content may help replenish these levels, potentially alleviating some of the discomfort experienced during menstruation and contributing to the craving.
It’s worth noting that not all women experience the same level of chocolate craving during their period. Individual variations in hormone levels, neurotransmitter sensitivity, and personal preferences can influence the intensity of the craving. This means that some women may not experience a significant craving for chocolate at all, while others may have a strong desire for it.
Understanding the scientific aspects of the chocolate craving during menstruation can help women recognise that it is a normal phenomenon influenced by hormonal changes. However, it is essential to approach this craving in moderation and maintain a balanced diet overall. While indulging in some chocolate can provide temporary relief and improve mood, it is crucial to listen to your body's needs and incorporate a variety of nutrient-rich foods during your period for overall well-being.
Emotional and psychological factors
While physiological factors play an important role during menstruation, there are also emotional and psychological factors that influence the craving for chocolate. Many women associate chocolate with comfort and emotional support, leading to an increased desire for it during times of hormonal changes.
Chocolate is often seen as a treat or indulgence, and this perception is deeply ingrained in many cultures. From a young age, we are often rewarded with chocolate or use it as a form of self-soothing. The association between chocolate and positive emotions can create a psychological connection, leading women to seek out chocolate as a source of comfort during their period.
Moreover, hormonal fluctuations during menstruation can impact mood and emotions. Feelings of irritability, sadness, or anxiety may arise, and chocolate consumption can be a way to alleviate these emotional symptoms. The pleasurable taste and texture of chocolate, along with the release of endorphins triggered by its consumption, can provide temporary relief from stress and emotional distress.
Stress relief plays a significant role in the craving for chocolate as well. Women often experience increased stress levels during their period due to hormonal changes and physical discomfort. Chocolate consumption can activate the brain's reward system, leading to the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. The temporary boost in dopamine levels can help reduce stress and provide a sense of relaxation, making chocolate an appealing choice during this time.
It's important to note that the craving for chocolate during menstruation is not a reflection of weakness or lack of self-control. It is a natural response influenced by a combination of emotional conditioning, cultural associations, and the desire for comfort during a physically and emotionally challenging period.
While indulging in chocolate can provide temporary emotional relief, it's crucial to be mindful of moderation. Excessive consumption of chocolate or relying solely on it to cope with emotional fluctuations can lead to imbalances in overall nutrition and potentially contribute to weight gain or other health concerns. Understanding the emotional and psychological factors behind the craving can help women find alternative ways to manage emotions during menstruation, such as engaging in relaxation techniques, practicing self-care, or seeking support from loved ones.
By recognizing the interplay between emotional and psychological factors and the craving for chocolate, women can develop a greater sense of self-awareness and make conscious choices that support their overall well-being during their menstrual cycle.
Evolutionary perspective
The craving for chocolate during menstruation may have evolutionary roots that can be understood through various theories. While it is challenging to determine the exact reasons behind this phenomenon, scientists have proposed some intriguing hypotheses that shed light on the evolutionary perspective of the chocolate craving.
One hypothesis revolves around the nutritional content of chocolate. Chocolate, particularly dark chocolate, contains nutrients that may be beneficial during menstruation. For example, the fact that it is rich in magnesium and iron, as mentioned previously. During the menstrual cycle, women's bodies undergo physiological changes, including blood loss, which can lead to a temporary decrease in iron levels. Craving chocolate, which contains iron, may be a subconscious way for the body to replenish this vital nutrient. Similarly, magnesium plays a role in regulating mood and can alleviate premenstrual symptoms, making the magnesium content in chocolate appealing during this time.
Another aspect of the evolutionary perspective suggests that cravings for high-calorie foods like chocolate served as a survival mechanism for our ancestors. In the past, food scarcity and the need for energy reserves were common challenges. Cravings for calorie-dense foods, including chocolate, might have ensured that women had enough energy stores to support reproduction and survival. From an evolutionary standpoint, it made sense for women to seek out and consume foods that provided quick and easily accessible energy during menstruation.
Additionally, the reward pathways in the brain may play a role in the evolutionary aspect of the chocolate craving. Consuming chocolate triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This release of dopamine can create positive reinforcement, making the craving for chocolate during menstruation a potentially adaptive behavior. By satisfying the craving, the brain perceives a reward, reinforcing the desire for chocolate in future cycles.
It's important to note that these evolutionary theories are speculative and not definitive explanations for the chocolate craving during menstruation. The complex interplay between biology, psychology, and cultural factors likely contributes to this phenomenon. Every woman's experience may vary, and some women may not experience a significant craving for chocolate during their periods.
How to manage chocolate cravings
Managing chocolate cravings during your period can be a challenge, but there are several strategies you can try to help satisfy your cravings while maintaining a balanced approach. Here are some tips to manage chocolate cravings effectively:
Opt for Dark Chocolate: When choosing chocolate, go for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content. Dark chocolate contains less sugar and more cocoa solids, making it a healthier option. Look for chocolate with at least 70% cocoa to maximise the potential health benefits.
Practice Moderation: Instead of completely denying yourself chocolate, practice moderation. Enjoy a small portion of chocolate to satisfy your craving without going overboard. Set a specific portion size and stick to it, allowing yourself to indulge without feeling guilty.
Distract Yourself: When a chocolate craving hits, distract yourself with other activities. Engage in hobbies, go for a walk, or spend time with friends and family. Keeping your mind occupied can help divert your attention away from the craving.
Opt for Healthy Alternatives: Instead of reaching for chocolate, try healthier alternatives that still provide a satisfying taste. Fresh fruits like strawberries, bananas, or oranges can provide natural sweetness and a pleasant texture. You can also try a small handful of nuts or a serving of Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey.
Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can sometimes be mistaken for hunger or cravings. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to ensure you're adequately hydrated. Sometimes, a glass of water can help curb cravings and reduce the intensity of the desire for chocolate.
Incorporate Balanced Meals: Focus on maintaining a well-balanced diet that includes whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. A balanced diet can help stabilize your blood sugar levels and reduce the intensity of cravings.
Manage Stress Levels: High-stress levels can exacerbate cravings. Find healthy ways to manage stress during your period, such as practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or engaging in activities like yoga or gentle exercise.
Get Enough Sleep: Sufficient sleep is crucial for overall well-being and can help regulate hormones and reduce cravings. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep per night to support hormonal balance and minimize cravings.
Seek Support: Share your cravings and challenges with friends, family, or a support group. Talking about your cravings and seeking encouragement can help you feel supported and motivated to make healthier choices.
Remember that it's normal to experience chocolate cravings during your period, but practicing moderation and making mindful choices can help you manage them effectively. Listen to your body, prioritise balanced nutrition, and explore healthier alternatives to satisfy your cravings while maintaining overall well-being.
