Luteal phase

The Luteal phase(day 15-27) begins after ovulation where your endometrial lining thickens, for a potential pregnancy. In the case that pregnancy does not occur, the lining sheds, causing a period.

The luteal phase brings with it a surge of progesterone, causing familiar symptoms like bloating, mood swings, breast tenderness etc. As your period approaches, however, estrogen and progesterone levels decline , often leading to fatigue and tiredness. We’ve all experienced the rollercoaster of emotions, food cravings and inconsistent digestion that surfaces the week leading to our periods. This is precisely the time to pay close attention to what we eat to alleviate these symptoms.

This particular phase in the menstrual cycle is when I crave the most food. The key to feeling less irritable and bloated is to avoid food that causes a glucose spike ,leading to further fatigue. Complex carbohydrates are your best bet to feeling fuller, more energetic(relatively more energetic at least haha) , as it maintains your blood sugar. Squash, sweet potatoes , leafy vegetables , beets, flax seeds, oats, lentils ,probiotic drinks are all great ingredients to rely on. Oh, and best to avoid foods that usually causes bloating(tried and tested) and inflammation.