PMS Cravings Are Real!

Alright who struggles when it's "their" time of the month?  You know when Aunt Flow comes for her annual visit and you suddenly want to eat all the chocolate you can find?  If you're shaking your head yes you're not alone!  In fact, just about half of women say they experience some sort of cravings (chocolate being high on the list), during menstruation.   

The theory on this is because of the hormonal changes your body goes through during this time.  Your estrogen and progesterone dip which can increase hunger.  Your serotonin dips which is your "happy" hormone while at the same time your cortisol increases which is your stress hormone.  So craving something like chocolate which can cause you to feel satiated and happy is totally normal!  The downside is, that sometimes those cravings can get the best of us.  Maybe you reach for a whole bar of chocolate instead of just a piece or maybe you eat an entire box of thin mint cookies instead of one.  Either one could completely ruin your macros and calories for the day. So having something on hand to crush those cravings while satiating you during that time of the month (or anytime) is a good idea. 

One of my favorite things to have when that craving strikes is something with chocolate and a decent amount of fat.  The chocolate makes me happy and the fat helps to satiate me so I don't keep eating.  These yummy treats are always in my freezer for when I need them!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Fudge

Ingredients

1/4 cup coconut butter

1/4 cup all natural peanut butter

1 scoop chocolate peanut butter

1 scoop collagen peptides

Directions

In a microwave safe bowl, melt coconut butter and peanut butter for about 20-30 seconds. Stir until smooth and creamy. Add in protein powder and collagen peptides. Stir until well combined. Scoop into a bit size silicone mold tray and freeze until solid. Store in the freezer for up to one month. Enjoy!

Remember, while your hormones might have some control over your cravings, mood, energy etc. during that time of the month, you are ultimately the one in control! Make smart, healthy choices which will help you to feel better during that week as well as keep you on track!