I tend to be low on iron anyway, and I make a point of eating more red meat, and larger servings, at that time. And yes, that's a craving. Probably the only one I really give in to, but I can justify it!

No, haven't gone off plan during my period. I don't knowingly go out of my caloric range. I have skipped a few workouts because of cramps, though.

My problem is PMS cravings. They're quite severe. I honestly feel food insanity during this time and have control difficulties. I always thought I was crazy and didn't make the connection until I realized I felt this way before unexpected periods too (had 2 in August what fun!). Once everything starts I am fine (literally the first day) and have no interest in bad food. I am starting to take fish oil and maybe evening primrose oil and magnesium to see if this helps.

I give in to my cravings but not because I want to... but because it's uncontrollable for me. I've only been on this new lifestyle for 3 months so I haven't learned my patterns yet but it would seem that the week before tom is full of awful cravings. And I don't exercise the first day because of severe cramps and bloating. I'm just waiting it out and hoping the cravings go away when it does.

what a timely question! (its that time...)

ive been really emotional the past two days. super stressful days at work, messy kitchen (too much time at work), exhausted, crabby, sorry-for-myself feelings weepy at silly things...

i decided to order delivery- dont feel like cooking, dont feel like cleaning- was going to order a pizza (ive been so good, one time won't hurt- ive been working so hard, i deserve it)

i ordered a special salad with romaine, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, fresh mozzarella and grilled chicken, dressing on the side. (its a really good delivery place!)

i realized that eating a pizza would just make me feel crappier. and even if i only ate 2 (or 3) slices, i don't want the rest around.

so while the BEST option would be just to make my own food, im giving in to indulgence, but keeping it responsible.

oh, my acupuncturist always advised me to eat red meat during my period. (i usually get iron from collards and kale, etc, which i eat often)

i make bad choices when i'm exhausted. sometimes TOM just leaves you exhausted, no matter what. so i'm trying to find Better Choices to fall back on. i think i succeeded tonight. (except for the wine i'm drinking! i have mostly quit that- but tonight, its another indulence...)

I have no problems eating only 1200 calories a day from beginning of TOM until ovulation. The 2 weeks after ovulation I need about 1400 a day to be happy. The day before TOM begins I usually eat at maintenance because I am starving. I just listen to my body. Trying to go against it's wishes is usually futile for me and just leads to binges.