Remember those pesky hormones, estrogen and progesterone? They often have an effect on period bloating. According to a 2010 study published in the Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews, estrogen and progesterone aren't only linked to sexual reproduction; they also control fluid retention and regulation within the body. So as these hormone levels fluctuate before (or during) your period, it can cause your body to retain more fluid and salt, leading to bloating.

According to Healthline, these fluctuations in hormones can also cause you to crave certain foods, especially those high in carbs and sugar. However, other hormones can cause these cravings, too. "Hormones, such as serotonin, decrease when menses start," Oluwakemi M. Edokpayi MD told Popsugar. "These decreases can change your mood, making you crave certain foods. And when you eat certain foods, serotonin and dopamine can be released, thus improving your mood."

More often than not, these treats will include an excessive amount of salt, which can cause the body to hold on to more fluid and therefore result in bloating. While you can't really control how your hormones increase and decrease during your period, you can deal with bloating by keeping an eye on your diet and making some changes.

Read more:
This Is Why You Get Bloated On Your Period - The List

Comments are closed.