Late-Night Period Cravings: Spicy and Chocolate Temptations

 It’s 2:18 AM, Indian Standard Time, and here I am, wide awake, craving two things that feel like lifesavers during this time of the month—something spicy and, of course, chocolate. If you’re a woman, you know the drill. Periods bring along mood swings, cramps, and a stomach that suddenly turns into a picky child demanding very specific comfort foods.

Spicy food, for some reason, feels like a warm hug during these moments. Maybe it’s the heat that distracts from the cramps or the bold flavors that make the world seem a little less dull. Whether it’s a plate of spicy Maggi, a steaming bowl of masala ramen, or crispy chili potato, anything with a kick of spice feels just right. For me, the craving is usually for something tangy and fiery, something that makes me forget I’m curled up in bed with a hot water bottle.

And then, there’s chocolate. The love story between women and chocolate during periods is timeless. It’s not just a craving; it’s a necessity. Dark, milk, or even white—it doesn’t matter. The richness of chocolate releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones, which are a blessing when your hormones are on a rollercoaster ride. Sometimes, I dream of brownies with gooey centers or a warm cup of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows. At other times, a simple bar of dairy milk does the trick.

But why these specific cravings? Turns out, there’s science behind it. During your period, your serotonin levels (the happiness hormone) drop, and chocolate helps boost it. As for spicy food, it can improve blood circulation and metabolism, giving you a much-needed energy boost when your body feels sluggish.

So, here I am, at an odd hour, thinking of whipping up some spicy noodles and finishing off with a piece of chocolate. Because let’s face it—periods are tough, but with the right comfort foods, they become just a little more bearable.

What are your go-to cravings during this time of the month? Are you a spicy snack fan or someone who hoards chocolates like treasures? Share your favorites—I might just add them to my list for the next late-night craving session!