Why You Can Gain Weight During Your Period

Why You Can Gain Weight During Your Period

You're doing everything right, sticking to your fitness routine, eating balanced meals, and then you step on the scale. Lo and behold, the numbers have gone up. Before you start questioning your discipline or consider throwing your scale out the window, it's worth noting that menstrual cycles can lead to temporary weight gain. If you find this experience all too familiar, we have some insights to share with you. The team at BFF Medical Wellness Clinic offers a wide variety of professional services from ketamine treatment to weight loss management, and we're here with solutions to help you manage this monthly fluctuation better.

Water Weight

The most common reason for weight gain during your period is fluid retention. The hormonal shifts in your body can lead to water accumulation, especially in your abdomen, legs, and breasts. This is a temporary setback and usually disappears within a few days after your period ends. Stay hydrated and reduce your salt intake during this time. Counterintuitive, as it may seem, drinking more water, can help your body release the stored fluids more efficiently.

System Backups

What goes in must come out, right? Well, not always. Constipation is another factor that can add extra pounds to the scale. Progesterone, a hormone that increases during your period, can slow down your digestive system. A fiber-rich diet can offer relief. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help kick your digestive system into gear and alleviate constipation.

Snack Attacks

Cravings can be especially intense during your period. It's not uncommon to reach for salty, sweet, or fatty foods when your hormones are in flux. These high-calorie options can lead to a slight uptick on the scale. If you can't fight the cravings, at least opt for healthier alternatives. Instead of chips, munch on air-popped popcorn. Instead of a chocolate bar, consider dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa.

PMS Issues

Premenstrual Syndrome can cause a host of symptoms, including bloating and weight gain. The hormonal imbalance and emotional stress associated with PMS might make you feel heavier, even if it's just a small increase in weight. Regular exercise can work wonders. Physical activity releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones, which can alleviate PMS symptoms and help regulate your weight.

PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a more serious underlying condition that can cause weight gain. While it's not directly linked to your menstrual cycle, its symptoms can become worse during this time. Consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, which may include medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of both.

Do You Need Professional Weight Loss Management?

Slight weight gain during your menstrual cycle is often a harmless, though frustrating problem. The good news is that most of these factors can be managed through simple lifestyle changes and professional services. If you’re ready to tackle these issues head-on, call or visit BFF Medical Wellness Clinic. Whether you need ketamine therapy or weight loss management, our specialists can provide a tailored program and one-on-one consultations to help. Contact our office for more details about ketamine therapy, weight loss, and other wellness topics.