Ladies, we don’t blame you for being partial to a few squares (read: an entire block) of choccy when it’s that time of the month…
But, what’s the deal? Can science explain why chocolate cravings and periods seem to go hand-in-hand?
Some experts suggest that cravings for chocolate might take place due to the shift in our hormone levels – particularly oestrogen, cortisol and serotonin – that takes place before a period. At the same time that your ‘happy hormones’ start to drop off, levels of cortisol (AKA the stress hormone) in your body begin to rise. Understandably, we’re then prompted to reach for high-energy, sugary foods to perk us up again.
Similarly, others have attributed these cravings to the mood-enhancing chemicals that chocolate contains, as well as its antioxidant properties. In other words, eating chocolate makes us feel good, at least for a little while. For most women, those feel-good benefits are reason enough to dig in.
But, the least glamorous of all explanations may also be the simplest: intense cravings might just be related to a heightened desire for comfort food at a time of the month that is, well, less than pleasant. In other words, our cravings are purely psychological and have nothing to do with hormonal fluctuations.
Does that mean I have to quit chocolate?
Absolutely not! But before you nosedive into a packet of store-bought chocolate frogs, there are a few facts to consider.
Before your period, one of the worst things you can do is smash your body with sweet stuff, as your blood sugar levels can already be a little out of whack. So overdosing on sugar will only cause even bigger spikes (and crashes) than it normally would. Sugar is also highly inflammatory (surprise, surprise) and inflammation in the body can lead to an increase in cramping.
So instead of gorging on conventional choccies, make your own sugar-free versions! Need some inspo? Commence drooling now…
Chocolate Nut Butter Cups.
Chocolate and peanut butter, together again. Need we say more?
Our Famous Raspberry Ripple.
Refreshing, crunchy, creamy – this raw chocolate recipe really hits the (sweet) spot.
Anti-Inflammatory Hot Chocolate.
We’re all about foods that are functional and delicious. Got cramps? Feeling down? Sip on this IQS-friendly hot chocolate and you’ll not only get your choccy fix but a big dose of soothing spices as well.
If you absolutely can’t say no to a few squares of choccy at that time of the month (we ain’t judging) opt for 85% (or darker) varieties. Or, for more recipes that will satisfy your chocolate cravings, check out our Ultimate Chocolate Cookbook.
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