Many girls/women find that they are craving meat before period times. Why is this so? Let’s find out in this article.
Why Do You Crave Meat Before Periods?
Meat is rich in protein and iron. These two nutrients are very important in our bodies. For females, they are even more important because their deficiencies affect menstruation negatively.
During menstruation, women experience symptoms such as sluggishness, fatigue and lethargy due to cramps and heavy blood flow.
By consuming more iron-rich foods before and during your period, you can help prevent low iron levels which can make these symptoms worse. Iron rich foods to include in your diet comprise lean meat, leafy greens, legumes and lentils. Also ensure to up your B-Vitamin and Vitamin C intake.
During the follicular phase (Day 5-13 of your menstrual cycle), your body is preparing for ovulation and so more estrogen is produced in the body. This results in an increase in libido and energy in the body.
To keep up with this increase in energy production, eat protein-rich foods such as lean cut meats, chicken, turkey, sea food, yogurt and eggs.
Did You Know?
Low iron levels contribute to period cramps!
When I was taking iron supplements, I noticed one thing that really shocked me! My periods were literally pain-free and it felt like I didn’t even have periods – yes, they were much lighter. It was even exam week for me so I felt blessed beyond words.
If you have low iron levels, please consider taking iron supplements. You might be pleasantly surprised with lighter, painless periods!
Vegetarian Craving Meat Before Period
Now if you’re vegetarian craving meat before period times, then you might be frustrated. Some women who become vegans/vegetarian note that before their first period after the transition, they crave meat so bad that they give in and eat it.
This may be because you aren’t getting enough iron in your diet! We all know that periods mean blood loss, which may lead to low iron levels and even anemia.
If your body is craving meat, then it’s a signal that you have low iron and since your period is around the corner, you may lose even more iron. This means you need to eat iron in your diet. Most vegetarian iron-rich foods also contain protein such as legumes, leafy greens and lentils!
There are a LOT of vegetarian and vegan foods rich in iron! Here they are:
Vegetables rich in iron
- Spinach
- Lentils
- Swiss chard
- Black beans
- Broccoli
For more information, read: Iron-Rich Vegetables – Sources for Vegetarians
Fruits rich in iron
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Dehydrated apricots
- Persimmons
- Raisins
- Mulberries
Read more here: Top 10 Fruits Rich in Iron to Increase Hemoglobin Levels
Note that when you eat vegetables rich in iron, also ensure to take Vitamin C. This is because Vitamin C helps in the absorption of non-heme iron, which means iron derived from plant sources. Vitamin C rich foods include citrus fruits!
Conclusion
Your body is craving meat before periods because you need these two vital nutrients in your body to prepare for healthy menstruation.
Having low levels of protein and iron in the body can cause period cramps, low energy, and anemia.
So, don’t ignore your meat cravings! Indulge in lean cut meats or opt for vegetarian sources of iron and protein to nourish your lovely body with what it needs.
Now you know the meaning of craving meat before period/menstruation! Eat iron-rich foods and you can even take supplements to have healthy happy periods!
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