SPM y síntomas del ciclo
Food cravings and appetite
Revisado: 4 de octubre de 2026
Solo en inglés por ahoraFeeling hungrier or wanting certain foods before a period is common. Here is what research shows, what is still unclear, and gentle ways to look after yourself.
A common premenstrual change
Changes in appetite and food cravings are recognised signs of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Some people feel hungrier in the week or two before a period, and some want particular foods. Like other PMS symptoms, these changes usually settle within a few days of your period starting. They are a normal part of how the cycle can affect your body.
What research shows
One review combined 15 sets of results from 330 women. On average, they ate a little more in the second half of the cycle, after ovulation, than in the first half. But the studies were small, used different ways to work out cycle phases, and their results varied a lot. So it is still unclear how big the change is, and who it affects most.
Why it might happen
The reasons are not fully understood. One idea is that the hormone oestrogen may help to dampen appetite, while progesterone, which rises after ovulation, may increase it. These are possible explanations, not proven ones, and are still being studied. Because the evidence is limited, be wary of strong claims, special diets or eating plans built around cycle phases.
Gentle ways to handle it
You do not need to fight your appetite or ban foods you enjoy. Some people feel steadier eating smaller meals more often, for example every 2 to 3 hours. Regular exercise and enough sleep can help with tiredness and low mood, which are also common before a period. Some studies suggest calcium may help with cravings. Ask a pharmacist before taking a supplement, especially if you take other medicines. Logging symptoms in Ciclo can show whether changes in appetite follow your cycle, so they feel less surprising.
When to talk to someone
Talk to a doctor or nurse if changes in eating come with severe low mood, anxiety or anger before your period. This can be a sign of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which can include binge eating. Also get checked if you want to eat things that are not food, such as ice or paper, as this can be a sign of low iron. If you feel your eating is out of control, or you are worried about food, weight or your body, ask for help. If you are thinking about harming yourself, get emergency help or contact a crisis line now.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. If you are worried about your eating, talk to a doctor or nurse.