Women's cycle and weight gain Topic

ChiaraT2016 05/13/17
Hi all

I thought I would share my observation of the interaction between periods and diet. I normally weight myself everyday before breakfast. I also map my ovulation and periods. (I have been dieting a few times but recently with more commitment and continuity. I have lost 4 kg. in 3 and a half months at ease! ). Anyway...my weight fluctuate up and down widely (between 0.8 and 1.5 kg) twice a month, even if the overall trend is downward. The first spike is at the ovulation and the second one is just the day before my periods start. Having noticed the trend I get less depressed when I read the scale, and more indulgent with my own body needs.... Chiara

Dietician 05/14/17
HI ChiaraT2016 and all the ladies out there-
Weight fluctuations before a menstrual period are common. Homonal fluctuations in the body cause fluid retention which then leads to a higher number on the scale. This is not because of excess body fat gained. Instead this higher number on the scale is due to fluid retention. It can be really helpful as ChiaraT2016 shared to track your cycles and pay attention to your body's normal patterns. Thus you can tell when you are on track or when your patterns are changing.
If fluid retention is a big concern you may try limiting salt intake. This can help to prevent further fluid retention.
Thanks for sharing your strategies- Always interesting to hear what others notice about their body. Take Care, Joanna (Dietician)

Women's cycle and weight gain