Do women really burn more calories around that time of the month?

Question

Someone said that we burn about 500 extra calories around that time and thats why we have such a large apitite then. is that true?

Answer 1

Well.... I haven't researched this scientifically, however, it takes calories to perform EVERY bodily function. And since you are performing an additional bodily function during that time of the month... I'm inclined to believe that you are burning SOME extra calories.

However, common sense would tell me that this would be different for every female, since "output" is different in terms of amount, duration, and frequency for every woman.

I'm also inclined to believe that a lot of the hunger has to do with hormones. Case in point: If you are burning an extra 500 calories a day and eating about the same as you normally do, the average 5-day period should net you at minus 1 lb per month.

If I were you (and if you're disciplined enough), I'd keep a log of what I eat the week before, and try to eat as close to the same as possible during "that week", and during the week after (to allow fluid retention to pass) and then check your weight.

Caloric intake and output is directly related (for humans) at the rate of 3500 calories per pound.


Come back and let us know how it turns out. : - )

Answer 2

I have never heard that. But it might be possible that since we're having a loss of blood that we need to make up for our loss by getting more nutrients into our system.

Answer 3

I hope so because it makes me pig out every month and exercise is not what I feel like doing. you know?