Why your weight changes when you are on your period
Have you noticed that you weigh more when on your period? This is why...
Your weight can fluctuate on a daily basis, causing concern for many of those who are monitoring their weight.
But before we get into why this happens, it is important for you to know what makes up your body weight.
Your body weight consists of muscle, bone, water, and fat. According to Very Well Fit, your body composition also comprises of your skin, and other lean tissues.
Even when you stick to a strict diet, you might be surprised that you are not getting the results you were hoping to get when you weigh yourself. This is because the scale weighs your overall weight and doesn't differentiate between fat and muscle.
Let's get into why you weigh differently during the different periods of the day, and especially when you are on your period.
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Water retention is one of the main reasons why your weight fluctuates.
Water retention means excess fluids have built up in your body.
According to Medical News Today, water levels can make a person's weight fluctuate by as much as two to four pounds (roughly one to two kilograms) in a single day. It also reports that water normally makes up 50 to 60 percent of an adult’s total body weight.
Eating foods that are high in salt (sodium-rich foods), and packed with carbohydrates can lead to water retention. It is reported that eating one gram of carbohydrates results in your body retaining three grams of water.
Women might also suffer from water retention during their period. That is because estrogen and progesterone affect the body's fluid regulation.
Women also experience hormonal fluctuations during their periods, which causes water retention.
Many women also go through a change in their appetite. They might over eat and have sugar cravings.
Some women might also skip workouts due to cramps.
So don't worry when you weigh more during your period. As long as after your period is done, you go back to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
If you are one of those wanting to lose weight, also make sure you weigh yourself once a week in the morning before consuming anything.
Also remember that the scale doesn't know how to differentiate between muscle and fat, so to check if you have lost weight, look at how your clothes fit and if you feel lighter. You can also use a measuring tape to check if you have lost any centimeters and if you have gained more control over your cravings.
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Disclaimer: Health-related information provided in this article is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems. It is always advisable to consult with your doctor on any health-related issues.