While that is the case for the majority of the two-ish week-long follicular phase, the first few days of our bleeds tend to be more individual. “Menstruation is a time when appetite varies with each woman from a dull appetite with nausea to intense cravings,” says Dr Aziz-Scott.

Hunger and appetite during the luteal phase

The luteal phase begins with ovulation and ends as your period begins and is characterised by an increase in progesterone. “Higher levels of this hormone causes appetite to rise,” says Dr Aziz-Scott, and the main reason for our desire to eat more food is because the body is burning more energy. “Progesterone is a calming hormone but also has a hyperthermic effect to raise body temperature, which means the body is using more energy,” she explains.

Research shows that daily caloric needs raise by 100-300 calories a day during the late luteal phase, showing that your PMS appetite isn’t in your head – it’s the body genuinely needing more fuel. Honouring that hunger is important to support your energy levels during a tiring week.

PMS cravings: does our appetite really change with the menstrual cycle?