Monitoring your weight throughout your menstrual cycle can lead to frustration and confusion. The hormonal and physical changes your body experiences during this time can alter the scale and your measurements. Despite the prevalence of this, many women need to be more informed about the weight fluctuation menstrual cycle changes trigger and their effects on body measurements. Here are some key things to consider with your fitness tracking efforts.

Exploring the Weight Fluctuation Menstrual Cycle Changes Cause

Your menstrual cycle affects many aspects of your physical well-being, and some of those changes can directly affect your body weight and measurements. Most PMS weight gain is temporary, but you should understand each element and what it means for your fitness tracking.

Hormonal Fluctuations

The hormonal shifts that occur in your body during your menstrual cycle can affect your body weight. Changes in estrogen levels, for example, can boost your energy levels and your mood. This often increases your physical activity levels and makes keeping up with your fitness routine easier. When estrogen levels are higher during the follicular phase, you may find that your body weight and measurements remain consistent or improve.

Progesterone levels increase during the luteal phase of your cycle. This increase often causes mood swings, increased appetite and bloating. Many women find that the bloated feelings and discomfort discourage them from activity. Your measurements and weight may increase during this period, though that change is typically brief.

Water Retention

Many women struggle with water retention during their menstrual cycle, particularly when progesterone levels are highest. Water retention causes increases in your body weight and your measurements. As progesterone levels drop, your body sheds the excess water weight and your scale and measurements should return to normal.

Appetite Changes

Progesterone level increases often trigger food cravings, particularly for sugary or salty foods. You may inadvertently exceed your typical calorie goals or disrupt your macro balance to satisfy these cravings. This may cause a temporary weight fluctuation as part of your menstrual cycle. You can minimize this effect by remaining mindful of your food choices and portion sizes throughout your menstrual cycle.

Exercise Routine Disruptions

The changes in your energy levels and discomfort during your menstrual cycle can interfere with your exercise routine. You might miss workouts during the luteal phase of your cycle, which can hinder your fitness efforts. Minimize the risks by adapting your exercise routine according to your cycle. For example, you might prioritize strength training when you have lower energy levels.

Embracing the Weight Fluctuation Menstrual Cycle Stages Trigger

Your menstrual cycle is a natural part of life, and its effects on your body weight and measurements are unavoidable. The more you understand the weight fluctuation menstrual cycle stages bring, the easier it is to not only adapt your routine but also dismiss the temporary changes. Avoid letting your hormonal changes or physical fatigue derail your fitness efforts. Embrace your body’s natural variations and plan your workouts accordingly. For more fitness information and tips for tracking your progress, check out the ZOZOFIT app and accompanying ZOZOSUIT today.