Craving Sweets… Is My Period Coming?
Feeling more irritable than usual, hungrier, or suddenly craving sweets?If your period is approaching, these changes may be related to premenstrual syndrome (PMS).PMS refers to physical and emotional symptoms that occur before a period. They commonly appear during the 1–2 weeks before menstruation and improve after the period begins. Symptoms and their severity vary from person to person and may also change from month to month.Why am I craving sweets?Changes in appetite and food cravings are common PMS symptoms. There is no need to completely avoid the foods you want. Try to enjoy them in moderation while maintaining regular, balanced meals.Why do I feel bloated?Fluid retention and bloating can occur before a period and may cause temporary changes in body weight. This does not necessarily mean you have gained body fat. Regular exercise and a balanced diet may help manage PMS symptoms.What about breakouts?Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can affect the skin, and some people notice more acne around their period. Avoid excessive cleansing or squeezing spots, which can irritate the skin and increase the risk of scarring.Why am I so irritable or emotional?Mood swings, irritability, anxiety and low mood are also common PMS symptoms. Fatigue and sleep problems may occur as well.Tracking your symptoms for at least two menstrual cycles can help you identify whether they consistently appear before your period and improve after it begins.Why does PMS happen?The exact cause is not fully understood. It appears to be related to how some people respond to normal hormonal and chemical changes during the menstrual cycle.Regular exercise, enough sleep, a balanced diet and stress management may help. If symptoms significantly affect your daily life, treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), SSRIs or combined hormonal contraceptives may be considered depending on your symptoms and circumstances.If severe depression, anxiety, anger or other symptoms repeatedly interfere with everyday life before your period, talk to a healthcare professional about premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).