Why not resist chocolate before menstruation? Science Answeres

Periskopi

22 March 2026, 15:52(3 months ago)

Study reveals that the desire for long sweets PMS is not a weakness, but the result of the hormonal changes affecting the brain and appetite many women note that a few days before menstruation, when premenstrual syndrome (PMS) begins, they are barely resistant to chocolate, candy, or carbs rich in carbs and are feeling constant hunger. A new study [...]

Many women find that a few days before menstruation, when premenstrual syndrome begins, they are barely resistant to chocolate, candy, or carbs rich and feel constant hunger. A new study by Cambridge University, published in the Journal of Nutritional Science, shows that these changes have clear biological and psychological grounds.

What Is Hedonic Hunger?

Emotional, physical, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms, such as pain, irritability, anxiety, and changes in the appetite, appear in the late Lutheran phase of the menstrual cycle. In women with PMS, these symptoms are more pronounced and affecting daily life.

During the menstrual cycle, appetites, eating habits, and preferences change. PMS is linked to strong emotional and physical changes, including a desire for food. In this context, researchers analyzed their relationship to so - called hedonic hunger, a desire to eat for pleasure, even when there is no real hunger, transmits Telegragraphy.

How is PMS diagnosed?

Researchers followed 150 young women in different stages of the cycle - first, during ovulation, and before menstruation. Women were compared to PMS and those without her.

PMS is diagnosed when symptoms before menstruation are strong enough to prevent everyday life and repeat themselves in each cycle.

Three main factors were analyzed:

hedonic famine level
A Desire for Certain Foods
Day - to - day calories

PMS and greater desire for food

One of the main findings was that women with PMS experience more often hedonic hunger throughout the cycle. They are more sensitive to appearance, smell, or thought of food, especially calories.

During pre - period periods, when symptoms are stronger, they also report higher intake of calories.

The study also showed that body weight has a role: overweight women or obesity demonstrate a greater desire for food compared to those with normal weight.

Hormones Affect humor and appetite

Scientists point out that hormonal changes during the cycle affect humor, emotions, and appetite adjustment. Estrogen and progesterone strains affect the reward system in the brain and the control of hunger.

In some women, especially those with PMS, these changes increase the desire for food.

The authors point out that increased appetite before menstruation is, not a lack of self - control, but a result of a complex hormone and neurologic combination.

Understanding these mechanisms may help create personal food recommendations. Strategys that adapt to cycle phases are more stable, especially for women with PMS, conclude the authors of the study. /Periscope