Weight Gain During Menstruation: What Are The Causes? Is It Normal?

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During the menstruation period, women experience a mountain of problems, which all begin with PMS. It is not uncommon for women to experience stomach bloating, headaches, migraines, mood swings, nausea, cramping, fatigue, stress, increased appetite, as well as sudden weight gain during menstruation, which only makes things worse.

When women are on their period, they often experience weight gain, and even though it may seem odd, this weight gain may or may not decrease after the period phase, making it frustrating.

Women who do not engage in physical activity during menstruation are more likely to experience weight gain, according to experts, which makes mobility and an active life more difficult [1].

It is recommended that women make it a point to remain active even on the first day of their periods, as it helps with reducing rapid weight gain, as well as reducing cramping.

So, ladies, here are some of the reasons for weight gain during menstruation. You might want to take a look at this and get ready for your next cycle:

What Causes Weight Gain During Periods?

1. Bloating

It is common for women to experience bloating during menstruation due to hormonal changes in their bodies. Due to bloating, a woman may experience severe cramping as well as feeling heavy as if she has gained weight [2].

2. Lack of physical activity

Bloating and cramps may lead to you skipping exercise, which can contribute to weight gain, especially if you are experiencing increased hunger or cravings [3].

3. Food cravings or overeating

Your period can also cause you to overeat as a result of hormonal changes. Progesterone is an appetite stimulant that increases in the week before your period. As your progesterone level increases, you may consume more than usual. It is also known that oestrogen regulates serotonin, a neurotransmitter that reduces appetite and controls mood [4].

As oestrogen drops right before your period, serotonin drops as well. This results in an increased appetite.

4. A decrease in magnesium

During your period, magnesium levels gradually decrease, which can lead to sugar cravings and increased weight gain [5].

5. Water retention

Water retention during pre-menstruation is a common cause of a bloated, heavy feeling that appears as if you have gained weight. Preventing and eliminating this problem requires maintaining a healthy diet that contains a high amount of protein. In order to avoid and eliminate this problem, ensure that your diet contains high levels of protein.

Weight Gain During Menstruation: Is It Normal?

As a physical symptom of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), it is normal to gain 1-2 kilograms during your period. It usually goes away a few days after the start of your period [6]. The symptoms of PMS include a wide range of physical, emotional, and behavioural ones that affect women several days to two weeks before their periods.

On A Final Note...

Weight gain during periods is caused by hormonal fluctuations. It may appear as a result of water retention, overeating, and sugar cravings, as well as skipping workouts due to cramps. Period bloating and gastrointestinal issues can also manifest as weight gain.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.