Ask Dr. Schwarz

How can I resist those cravings I get at certain times of the month?

As you probably know, you are not alone in this. It is a common challenge. Many women get cravings associated with the very important monthly hormonal changes that take place.

These cravings can be hard to resist, maybe even impossible sometimes. So, why not make it legal to give in at these times? After all, is that what really keeps the weight on? Is it due to those times each month when you feel cravings? Or is it really all the other times, the times when physical cravings for sweets, chocolate, etc. are not present?

Unlike a problem with drugs or alcohol, you cannot give up food altogether. Instead, you need to change your relationship to it. Part of this process involves understanding that people do need more food at times, less at other times. People even need certain food at times and not at other times.

Instead of fighting against your monthly cravings, why not allow yourself to satisfy the craving, say for chocolate (a common one), but not in a limitless way. If your cravings occur every month, then they are predictable and you can be prepared for them. Have your plan in place to answer the cravings, but also how to control them. For example, having half of a chocolate bar or 2 or 3 cookies once or twice a month can fit into a weight-loss plan beautifully.