6 Ways to Curb Your PMS Cravings

When that time of the month hits, many women have cravings along with mood swings and fatigue.  By changing your eating habits, you can cut down on irritability, bloating and sugar cravings. Here are some foods that can help curb your PMS cravings.  

Eat more fruits and vegetables

Choose a rainbow of fruits and vegetables to get a variety of nutrients.  Concentrate on leafy greens such as kale, greens or spinach which contain iron and b vitamins to help you not feel as fatigued.  When you feel tired you have more of a tendency to eat sweets. You can sauté greens in olive oil, onion and garlic for flavor. 

Eat foods high in iron

To replace the iron lost during your cycle, eat foods that have a high iron content.  Choose lean cuts of red meat. If you don’t eat red meat or are a vegetarian, lentils, soybeans, black beans, quinoa, brown rice and collard greens are good sources of iron.   

Snack on nuts

You might be tempted to reach for the chips, so eat some nuts instead.  Nuts are high in Omega-3 fatty acids and can help you feel full longer. Nuts like almonds and cashews are healthy sources of magnesium and will also help with chocolate cravings.  Eat a variety of raw nuts and seeds. If you can’t stay away from the chocolate, then choose dark chocolate in moderation.  

Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking water helps reduce bloating.  You should be drinking about 64 oz of water a day.  Another benefit of water is that it helps with digestion and makes you feel full.  If you need flavor, you can add lemon, lime, cucumber, ginger or any other fruit. Experiment with flavors.  

Cut down on salt

Most processed foods contain salt which causes bloating.  Prepare healthy meals at home by incorporating vegetables, whole grains and lean meats into your diet.

Eat Complex Carbs

Complex carbs break down slowly in your bloodstream and don’t spike your insulin levels.  Eating complex carbs can both curb cravings for sugar and stabilize your mood. Try steel cut oats, sweet potatoes, and lentils.

When you get PMS, it doesn’t mean you have to go on an eating binge.  Eat healthy meals and snacks to help with fatigue, cravings and mood swings. You can start by making one change at a time.  By making small changes, you can experience big results.