Could the menstrual cycle affect dietary cravings?

    Last Updated: October 13, 2024

    It is possible for the menstrual cycle to affect diet. In some people, cravings for sweet and salty foods, as well as overall appetite, may be increased during the luteal phase, compared to other phases.[1] This might be related, in part, to the way hormones can affect appetite, the perception of taste and smell, and water regulation.[2]

    References

    1. ^Gorczyca AM, Sjaarda LA, Mitchell EM, Perkins NJ, Schliep KC, Wactawski-Wende J, Mumford SLChanges in macronutrient, micronutrient, and food group intakes throughout the menstrual cycle in healthy, premenopausal women.Eur J Nutr.(2016-Apr)
    2. ^Žana Stanić, Ajka Pribisalić, Maria Bošković, Jasna Bućan Cvitanić, Kristina Boban, Gabriela Bašković, Antonija Bartulić, Suzana Demo, Ozren Polašek, Ivana KolčićDoes Each Menstrual Cycle Elicit a Distinct Effect on Olfactory and Gustatory Perception?Nutrients.(2021 Jul 22)