When do females crave
carbohydrate?
By Dr. Narinder Saini. MD Cardiologist
Hormonal fluctuations involving the menstrual
cycle influence appetite control and eating behavior.
Changes in appetite, food craving and calorie consumption
during the menstrual cycle may parallel cyclical
rhythms in serotonin a mood –controlling brain
chemical. The menstrual period is a time when women
are especially vulnerable to over-consumption, food
craving and depression, all of which is associated
with low serotonin activity. ( Hum Reprod.1997 Jun;
12 (6): 1142-51)
By time of day, one study showed that carb-craving
more often occurs around 4 PM and 9 PM, particularly
during premenstrual period. Since the brain chemical
called Serotonin reduces carbohydrate intake ,
exercise or its precursor tryptophan can be utilized
to enhance the release of serotonin.( The J Psychiatry.
1988 Aug; 49 ) Tryptophan rich foods are dried
figs, pineapple, banana and turkey meat.
An estrogen level rise with monthly cycle, so
does the need for magnesium. Among chocolate cravers,
9 out of 10 are women, and chocolate is rich in
magnesium. About 50 % of all food craving is for
chocolate. About 44 percent of American females
and 17 percent of American males crave chocolate.
( Appetite 1999; 33: 61-70 )
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