Why are some TOMs harder than others?

It usually doesn't get the best of me. I exercise right through and since I've been active I don't have issues. There are times that the caffeine in Motrin does help it along. Mainly Motrin isn't magical, it's the caffeine.

BTW, love the Jacob avatar.

A week before you get your TOM, drink at least 12 - 16 cups a water a day - it helps fight the water bloat

This whole week I seen 163 except wednesday it was 164. Today I wieghed myself and 162

I feel bloated but the scale doesn't show it and I'm hardly having any cramps or headaches

Last month I sailed through my period like a champ. Exercised every day and barely even noticed it coming. This month I've been basically sidelined with severe headaches, cramps and intense salt cravings. I've stuck within my calories every day except yesterday, but my sodium has been awful. I'm actually afraid to step on the scale. I feel like I've gained and I really don't want to depress myself.

The question is: when does bloating from a period go away and how can I tell if I have gained water weight or actual weight during this time? Also, How do you cope when your TOM gets the best of you?

To get your best answer to that question - it's best to check with your OB/GYN doctor or nurse practitioner. PMS and menstrual cycles are all tied to fluctuating hormone levels - like estrogen and progesterone.

The pre-menstrual time is usually a time when our metabolism actually increases a bit, so our brain signals to eat like crazy - are OK and are forgiveable. Eat in the healthiest way you can during that time, and get back on the wagon when your period is over. You'll find that you probably haven't gained as much weight as you imagine. As you work with your doctor to determine how your hormone levels fluctuate from month to month, your cravings for salt (mine are usually for caffeine and chocolate) will probably diminish.

I have an ongoing problem with water weight gain, no matter what time of the month it is, so watching my sodium intake is key. I usually keep my daily sodium intake less than 2000 mg (MFP helps me tremendously with this), and I choose individual food products 300 mg or less sodium / serving. I also watch my fluid intake. The rule of thumb is at least 8 eight ounce of fluid a day, but for me, six eight ounce cups serves me well.

Stuff that also exacerbates bloating: carbonated drinks, diet sodas (artificial sweeteners), refined and processed carbs (refined sugars, refined flour products), not chewing your food well before swallowing, and adding too much fiber to your diet too quickly.

Stuff that reduces bloating: OTC's like Midol and Pamprin during the PMS time, plain yogurt or Greek yogurt, low impact aerobic exercise, yoga, fresh juices containing celery or parsley, following a low sodium diet before, during, and after your cycle.

Haha, one could read this subject and think something COMPLETELY different, lol.

LMAO