Why You Crave Chocolate at Certain Times in Your Cycle (and Why You Shouldn’t Feel Guilty About It)
- Dr. Alyssa Brooks McPeak
- Jun 14
- 2 min read
If you’ve ever found yourself desperately searching the pantry for chocolate around your period—or mid-luteal phase—you’re not alone. In fact, that chocolate craving is your body trying to tell you something. And here’s the good news: when you reach for dark chocolate, you’re not just satisfying a craving—you’re actually supporting your hormones.
The Science Behind Chocolate Cravings
1. Magnesium Deficiency
Chocolate is rich in magnesium, a mineral many women are deficient in—especially during the second half of their cycle (after ovulation). Magnesium helps reduce cramping, ease anxiety, balance blood sugar, and improve sleep.
2. Hormonal Shifts
During the luteal phase (the week or two before your period), estrogen and progesterone drop. This hormonal shift can lead to lower serotonin levels, which affects your mood and increases cravings for feel-good foods—like chocolate.
3. Blood Sugar Imbalances
If your blood sugar is on a rollercoaster due to stress, lack of sleep, or unbalanced meals, your body will start reaching for quick fixes—often sweet and fatty foods. Chocolate fits the bill.
Why Dark Chocolate Is Actually Good for Your Hormones
Not all chocolate is created equal. While milk chocolate is packed with sugar and dairy that can disrupt your hormones, dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher) offers real benefits:
✅ Rich in magnesium, iron, and zinc—critical minerals for hormone balance and fertility.
✅ Loaded with antioxidants, including flavonoids, that support detox and reduce inflammation.
✅ Boosts mood by increasing serotonin and endorphins—your body’s natural “happy chemicals.”
✅ Improves blood flow, including to reproductive organs, which supports ovulation and implantation.
A Healthier Way to Satisfy the Craving: Dark Chocolate Black Bean Brownies
If you’re craving something rich, fudgy, and chocolatey that also supports your fertility—this recipe has your back.
✨ Hormone-Friendly Dark Chocolate Black Bean Brownies ✨
Ingredients:
1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
2 large pasture-raised eggs
1/3 cup maple syrup or raw honey
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1/3 cup raw cacao powder or unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (70%+ cacao)
Optional Add-ins: 1 tbsp ground flax or collagen for an extra hormone boost!
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a small 8x8 baking dish.
Add all ingredients except chocolate chips to a food processor. Blend until completely smooth.
Fold in dark chocolate chips.
Pour batter into baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
Cool before slicing. Store in fridge for up to 5 days.
Final Thoughts
Next time you feel the chocolate craving creeping in, don’t fight it—understand it. Your body might be asking for magnesium, mood support, or simply a nourishing treat. Choose dark chocolate - more than 70%, and make it work for your hormones—not against them.
Want more cycle-syncing recipes that support your hormones naturally? Check out my Cycle Syncing Course, your step-by-step guide to eating in harmony with your body.
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