Chocolate cravings during menstruation are a common experience, stemming from a complex interplay of hormonal fluctuations, nutritional needs, and psychological factors. It's not that girls should eat chocolate, but many experience a strong desire for it.
Hormonal Changes and Nutritional Needs
The primary reason for chocolate cravings during periods is linked to fluctuating hormone levels. As noted in several sources, levels of serotonin, a feel-good hormone, drop, while insulin levels rise. This combination can trigger cravings for mood-boosting foods, especially those high in sugar and fat, like chocolate. The increased insulin also contributes to a desire for something sweet to raise blood sugar levels. ([Levels of the feel-good hormone serotonin drop and insulin levels go up] and https://www.always.co.uk/en-gb/tips-and-advice-for-women/pms-and-menstrual-cramps/why-do-you-crave-chocolate-on-your-period/).
Additionally, dark chocolate contains minerals like copper, magnesium, and calcium, which some women may be deficient in during their period. This nutritional deficiency may contribute to the craving (https://www.naturalcycles.com/cyclematters/why-do-i-crave-chocolate-on-my-period).
Psychological and Cultural Factors
Beyond the physiological aspects, psychological and cultural factors play a role. Premenstrual cravings for chocolate are common, with almost 50% of American women reporting them (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5517000/). This prevalence highlights the cultural influence on food preferences and emotional coping mechanisms. The learned association between chocolate and comfort might amplify the craving (https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/women-crave-chocolate-periods-why-reason-dietitian-hormone-imbalance-serotonin-cortisol-psychological-a8161896.html). Moreover, the antioxidant properties of chocolate might be another reason, as it could help reduce inflammation and improve brain function (https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/why-do-we-crave-chocolate-periods).
Inflammation and other factors
Recent research suggests premenstrual cravings for sugary and salty foods, including chocolate, may be related to inflammation (https://www.newscientist.com/article/2360095-why-chocolate-cravings-strike-a-week-or-two-before-a-menstrual-period/). Additionally, endocannabinoids, which influence eating behavior, may also play a role (https://goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/why-do-i-crave-chocolate-during-my-period).
