How to remain focused and motivated during that time of the month?

rhinomidget

SOOO, as some of you know, about 1 - 2 weeks before your period AND during, you're extremely bloated (at least I am...I gain 3 - 5 lbs in water weight)...and also eating like crazy (although everything I eat is healthy and I never go enough above my calorie intake to gain a pound, I'm still eating a LOT more than usual)...

So, you add both of those up, and then you start to lose your mind. I made the stupid mistake of weighing myself this morning and I was 3 lbs heavier(I know it's not a lot, but I'm 5'0, so trust me, it shows..) than I usually am and I'm kinda losing it even though I know that after my period I will deflate and go back to normal..

Is there any way for me to stay calm and focused during this time? Right now the only thing I'm able to focus on is the fact that my stomach nearly looks pregnant and that I FEEL pregnant...

diannethegeek

I think everyone deals with that time of the month differently, but some of the things that work for me are:

1. chocolate - even if it's just a 40-calorie fudge pop or a 60-calorie pudding pack, a little chocolate can go a long way
2. comfort foods - for me, that's mac & cheese, sloppy joes, pizza, all made to fit within my calorie & macro goals
3. I increase my carbs just a bit before my period - I have absolutely no reason why I do this or why it has the effect that it does, but it helps my mood and makes me feel better
4. drink lots of water to help the bloat
5. I increase my iron intake, too - dark chocolate and spinach, just hopefully not together!

Mostly it's about remembering that this is going to happen every month for most of your life (barring certain forms of birth control or other things happening). You have to make your peace with it somehow. Learn to deal with the emotional side of things as best you can and you'll be better equipped to handle the diet part.

MoiAussi93

I don't have major problems with this. I sometimes, but not always, gain a couple of pounds, but for me it is more likely to be around ovulation. I usually lose a lot right before my period and during. But everybody is a little different.

What helps me avoid weight gain most months is to drink A LOT of water. The more water you drink in general, the less likely your body is to retain extra water. Also, watch your sodium intake. That will cause water retention...you say you eat more than normal during that time...chances are that includes more sodium than normal which will only make things worse.

If seeing it on the scale, even though temporary, bothers you that much perhaps you should consider not weighing yourself during that time. No reason to add stress that is unnecessary.

lucygoesrawr

I don't know if this will help you at all - but a while ago I read that calcium helps with a lot of symptoms of PMS (didn't even really believe it at the time, but thought it was worth a try). So, I increase my calcium consumption to around 150% of my goal the week before, and it really helps me with cravings, general mood and tiredness. Not bloating, though - I don't really know if anything can help that. It might not work for you though. Just putting it out there.

sofaking6

Go on the pill.

TheNextNinjaWarriorPrincess

I hear you sister! I am waiting for my period as I type this and the scale was up 5 LBS today to start my week off with a fizzle. Arg.

yoovie

i wish I could help you, but every two months when I hit that stage, I crumple into the corner of my house, rocking back and forth and wishing Id never been born and wondering why anyone even puts up with me and the only way for me to move on with my life is to Bench Press.