Will weight increase or decrease during menstruation?
Apr 22, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Weight may increase or decrease during menstruation. Women often experience increased appetite and slower metabolism during their period, along with a tendency for water and sodium retention. Therefore, if diet and exercise habits remain unchanged, weight may slightly increase. However, if menstrual cramps are severe, food intake is strictly restricted, or menstrual blood flow is heavy, weight may decrease.
Weight may increase or decrease during the menstrual period, depending on various factors such as diet and exercise habits. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Increase
Women often experience increased appetite during menstruation, along with a slower metabolism and tendency for water and sodium retention. If dietary intake and physical activity remain unchanged, body weight typically increases by about 1–2 kilograms. If calorie intake is particularly high, weight gain may be even more significant.
2. Decrease
During menstruation, severe dysmenorrhea (painful periods) may lead to higher energy expenditure or reduced appetite. Additionally, if food intake is strictly restricted before complete expulsion of menstrual blood, or if menstrual flow is heavy causing excessive fluid loss, body weight may slightly decrease.
If significant discomfort occurs before, during, or after menstruation, it is advisable to seek timely medical evaluation at the gynecology department of a hospital.
