Premenstrual Syndrome, Ultra‐Processed Food Intake, and Food Cravings: A New Perspective

TL;DR

This study finds that young women with premenstrual syndrome consume more ultra-processed foods and experience stronger food cravings, suggesting diet changes could help manage symptoms.

Contribution

The study establishes a novel link between ultra-processed food consumption, food cravings, and premenstrual syndrome severity in young women.

Findings

Women with PMS consumed significantly more ultra-processed foods during the menstrual phase.

Food cravings and UPF consumption were significant predictors of PMS symptom scores.

Reducing UPF intake and managing cravings may help alleviate PMS symptoms.

Abstract

To investigate the relationship between premenstrual syndrome (PMS) prevalence, ultra‐processed food (UPF) consumption, and food cravings in young adult women. A cross‐sectional study was conducted over one menstrual cycle, utilizing the Premenstrual Syndrome Scale to assess PMS symptoms and the Food Craving Questionnaire‐Trait to evaluate food cravings. Dietary data, including UPF consumption, were collected through self‐reported dietary records. The study was carried out among young adult women, focusing on their dietary behaviors and menstrual health. A total of 230 women participated in the study, with a mean age of 20.6 ± 1.8 years. The prevalence of PMS was 61.3% among the participants. Women with PMS reported significantly higher UPF consumption and increased food craving scores compared to those without PMS. UPF energy intake during the menstrual phase was significantly higher in women with PMS (1042.0 ± 30.6 kcal vs. 635.6 ± 41.3 kcal, p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis identified food cravings (B = 0.468, p < 0.001) and UPF consumption (B = 0.018, p = 0.022) as significant determinants of PMS scores. Excessive consumption of UPFs and increased food cravings are associated with PMS symptoms. These findings highlight the necessity of considering menstrual‐related variations in dietary interventions, particularly with regard to the consumption of UPF and the management of cravings.

This study examines the association between premenstrual syndrome (PMS), ultra‐processed food (UPF) intake, and food cravings in young women. Individuals with PMS reported higher UPF consumption and significantly greater food craving scores across all menstrual phases. The findings highlight the role of dietary patterns in PMS severity and suggest that reducing UPF intake and improving diet quality may support symptom management.

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