What is the reason for not losing weight before menstruation

Weight loss before menstruation may be related to hormone level fluctuations, water retention, metabolic changes and other factors. Common causes include water and sodium retention caused by elevated progesterone levels, changes in estrogen affecting fat metabolism, excessive calorie intake caused by increased appetite, temporary reduction of basic metabolic rate, and increased weight fluctuation caused by psychological pressure.

1. Hormone level fluctuation

The increased secretion of progesterone before menstruation will promote the retention of water and sodium, resulting in weight gain of 1-3 kg. This physiological edema usually subsides after the onset of menstruation. A decrease in estrogen levels may reduce the efficiency of fat breakdown, at which point the body fat scale may show an increase in body fat percentage and a decrease in muscle mass. It is recommended to observe patterns by recording menstrual cycles to avoid excessive attention to weight figures in the week before menstruation.

2. Water retention

Elevated plasma aldosterone level in luteal phase will cause the kidney to reabsorb water, with common manifestations such as limb edema, breast pain, etc. Reducing the intake of high salt foods and supplementing with potassium rich foods such as bananas and spinach can help balance electrolytes. The daily water intake should be maintained at 1500-2000 milliliters, which can actually help the body eliminate excess water.

3. Metabolic changes

The basal metabolic rate during the luteal phase increases by 5-10% compared to the follicular phase, but is accompanied by stronger appetite drive. The body instinctively stores more energy to cope with possible pregnancy needs, and deliberately dieting at this time can easily lead to overeating. It is recommended to choose low GI staple foods such as oats and sweet potatoes, and maintain metabolic activity through impedance training.

4. Changes in intestinal function

Increased secretion of prostaglandins in the early stage may lead to slowed gastrointestinal motility, and some women may experience constipation. It can increase dietary fiber intake, such as 15g/day of chia seeds or 200g/day of dragon fruit, while supplementing with probiotic drinks to improve gut microbiota. Weight data may have a deviation of 1-2 kilograms due to fecal retention.

5. Psychological factors influence

Premenstrual anxiety can stimulate cortisol secretion and promote visceral fat accumulation. It is recommended to adopt a mindful diet and avoid emotional eating. Practicing 30 minutes of yoga or meditation daily can alleviate premenstrual tension syndrome. Weight fluctuations are a normal physiological phenomenon and will naturally recover after menstruation ends.

Weight fluctuations of 2-3 kilograms during the menstrual cycle are within the normal range. It is recommended to adopt a synchronized weight loss method: strengthen aerobic exercise 1-2 weeks after the menstrual period, and focus on strength training during the luteal phase. Adding magnesium rich foods such as pumpkin seeds and dark chocolate to the diet can help alleviate edema. If there is still no change in weight after the end of menstruation, pathological factors such as thyroid dysfunction or polycystic ovary syndrome should be investigated.