If the week before your period turns you into someone you don't recognize — crying over commercials, snapping at your partner, feeling rage you can't explain — there's a reason. And it's not "you being too sensitive".
For some women, the week before your period is a real struggle. The science finally explains why.
What's happening, simply
In the second half of your cycle, your body produces a hormone called progesterone. Progesterone is what your body uses to make a calming molecule sometimes called your brain's "natural Valium".
Right before your period, progesterone drops sharply. Your calming molecule drops with it. And the result is that everything feels turned up — emotions, anxiety, irritation.
You're not exaggerating. The volume button on your nervous system just got pushed higher.
Three foods that help
Magnesium-rich foods
Magnesium is the mineral most associated with calm. Dark chocolate (85 %+), pumpkin seeds, almonds, black rice, leafy greens. A handful a day, especially in the evening, can make a real difference.
Good fats
Your hormones are built on healthy fats. If you under-eat fat, your body has less to work with. Build every meal around something fatty : avocado, eggs, fatty fish, olive oil, nuts.
Less refined sugar
Refined sugar makes the mood swings worse. The cravings will be loud — that's normal — but swapping pastries for 85 % dark chocolate, fruit, or a handful of nuts is the most impactful swap you can make in this phase.
Want this on your plate, automatically ?
Lune adapts your meals to your cycle, your symptoms, your day. Free on iOS.
Download on the App Store— Hanane, founder of Lune.
This article shares general nutrition ideas. Lune is a wellness app and isn't a substitute for medical advice. If you struggle every month, talk to a healthcare professional.