If you notice that your appetite increases in the days before your period, you are not imagining it. Food cravings and increased appetite can occur during the luteal phase, the part of the menstrual cycle between ovulation and the start of your next period. They are also recognised symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Your body may need more energy

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Research suggests that energy intake can increase during the luteal phase. Hormonal fluctuations during this part of the cycle may affect appetite, hunger and feelings of fullness.

That does not mean everyone needs to eat significantly more before their period. However, feeling hungrier than usual during this phase is not unusual.

Why the cravings can feel specific

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It is not only the amount of food that can change. Many people notice stronger cravings for sweet or carbohydrate-rich foods before their period.

Mood and the brain’s reward system may contribute. Fatigue, irritability, anxiety and low mood can also occur with PMS, potentially making highly palatable foods more appealing.

Researchers use the term hedonic hunger to describe the desire to eat for pleasure or reward rather than because of physical hunger. A 2025 study of 150 women found an association between PMS, greater hedonic hunger, food cravings and higher energy intake. The findings show a relationship, however, rather than proving that PMS directly causes these changes.

There is still more to learn

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Scientists are continuing to investigate how the menstrual cycle affects appetite. Insulin sensitivity and appetite-regulating hormones such as ghrelin and leptin have all been studied as possible contributors.

One small study suggested that brain insulin sensitivity may vary across the menstrual cycle, but larger studies are needed before this can be used to explain premenstrual cravings.

So, if you find yourself reaching for chocolate or wanting a larger meal before your period, there may be several factors involved: hormonal changes, energy requirements, mood and the way your brain responds to rewarding foods.

How to handle the extra hunger

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Rather than trying to ignore your appetite, pay attention to when it changes. Balanced meals containing protein, fibre-rich carbohydrates and healthy fats can help keep you satisfied, while having a planned snack available can prevent you from becoming excessively hungry.

You do not need to completely avoid foods you enjoy. A craving does not automatically mean that your body is deficient in a particular nutrient, either.

Tracking your appetite alongside your menstrual cycle for a few months can help you identify your own pattern. You may find that the increased hunger appears at roughly the same point each month.

An increase in appetite before your period can be a normal part of the menstrual cycle. But if you regularly experience episodes of binge eating, feel unable to control your eating or find these changes significantly distressing, speak to a healthcare professional instead of assuming they are simply PMS.

Fasted training has become a popular fitness trend, especially among women who exercise first thing in the morning. It involves working out after an overnight fast, usually before breakfast. During this time, insulin levels are lower and the body relies more on stored fat for energy during lower-intensity exercise.

Some fitness enthusiasts say this helps the body burn more fat. While research supports that claim during the workout itself, experts say it does not automatically lead to greater fat loss over time. Lasting results still depend on factors such as diet, training quality, recovery and consistency.

Potential Benefits for Women

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Research shows that fasted exercise increases fat oxidation, meaning the body uses a higher percentage of fat as fuel during lower- to moderate-intensity activities such as brisk walking, cycling or an easy run. For women with busy schedules, exercising before breakfast can also make it easier to maintain a regular fitness routine without having to plan meals around workouts.

Some studies suggest fasted exercise may help the body respond more effectively to insulin, which plays an important role in regulating blood sugar, although researchers say more studies are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn. Some women also find it more comfortable to exercise on an empty stomach, especially if eating beforehand causes bloating or a heavy feeling.

The Risks to Consider

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High-intensity workouts depend heavily on carbohydrates for energy. Without enough fuel, some women may tire more quickly, struggle to maintain performance or lift less weight.

Recovery can also be slower if protein and carbohydrates are not consumed after demanding workouts. In addition, some women experience dizziness, headaches, nausea or low energy when exercising without eating, particularly during longer sessions or if they are dehydrated.

Women’s hormonal responses to fasting may also differ from men’s. Some experts believe combining frequent fasting with intense exercise may place extra stress on the body, although more research involving women is still needed.

Does It Help With Weight Loss?

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A common belief is that burning more fat during exercise leads to faster weight loss. Current evidence does not support that conclusion.

Studies comparing fasted and fed exercise generally find little difference in body fat loss when calorie intake and training are similar. Fasted training changes how the body uses energy during exercise, but it is not a shortcut to losing weight.

Should You Try It?

Fasted training may suit women who enjoy low- to moderate-intensity morning workouts and feel comfortable exercising before breakfast. It may be less suitable for heavy strength training, high-intensity interval workouts or endurance sessions, where eating beforehand can help maintain performance.

If you want to try fasted training, start with shorter sessions, stay hydrated and pay attention to how your body responds. Feeling persistently dizzy, weak or unwell is a sign to stop and reassess your routine.

After your workout, eat a balanced meal containing protein and carbohydrates to support recovery and restore energy levels.

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Fasted training can increase fat burning during exercise, but current evidence does not show that it leads to greater weight loss than exercising after eating. Whether it is the right choice depends on your fitness goals, the type of exercise you do and how your body responds.

Rather than focusing on when you eat, experts agree that a balanced diet, consistent training and proper recovery remain the biggest drivers of long-term fitness and weight management.

While workouts are good, combining it with the right nutrition is better. Nutrition helps muscle growth, recovery and performance. A well planned meal is needed to support muscle development. Research shows combining resistance training with proper nutrition helps increase muscle mass.

Take Enough Protein

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Protein supports muscle growth because it contains amino acids. To gain muscle, take about 2 grams of protein per kilogram daily.

High quality protein include:

• Chicken breast
• Turkey
• Fish
• Eggs
• Milk
• Soya products
• Beans

Eat Calories

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Asides protein, another nutrient you should have are calories. Without them, the body struggles to build new muscle tissue. Consider your body size when taking calories. However, be careful because calories affect body mass. Always check your body weight to determine if it is enough. Take dense foods over junk for good health.

Carbohydrates

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Carbohydrates provide the  energy everyone needs. When glycogen in muscles deplete, they restore it. This makes them ideal for  workout performance.

Good carbohydrates to consider are:

• Brown rice
• Oats
• Sweet potatoes
• Whole grain bread
• Whole grain pasta
• Fruits

Read Also: Simple Habits That Naturally Boost Your Mind and Body

Healthy Fats

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There are good and bad fats, if you want a strong muscle, take good fats. These fats support hormone production, and promote muscle development. With them, you can absorb nutrients easily into the body.

Healthy fat sources you should try are:

• Avocados
• Nuts
• Seeds
• Olive oil
• Salmon
• Natural nut butters

You need about 25 percent of daily calories from healthy fats.

Water 

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While meals are ideal, you can not achieve optimal performance with a dehydrated body. Water should be your best friend if muscle building is what you seek. You can take two litres of water daily for Best results.

A meal plan will help your fitness goals. With good nutrition, your body performance will improve. By keeping yourself hydrated and eating a balanced diet, your wellness goals will be achieved.