If you have no idea what I'm talking about when I say 'Follicular Phase', that's ok. Here's a quick rundown of each cycle phase -
Your cycle consists of 4 stages across ~27-31 days.
Days 1-5: Menstrual phase
Days 6-12: Follicular phase
Days 13-16: Ovulatory phase
Days 17-30: Luteal phase
(These are approximations - everyone has an individual process)
With planning around your cycle, you use these four phases as a guide to better understand what your body needs based on your hormones and where you are in your cycle. Unlike people who don't menstruate, people who menstruate have different hormone levels day to day, which is important to consider when developing your workflow, sleep routines, diet, and exercise plans. More on cycle tracking here.
I recently started making meal planning with my cycle in mind a priority, and its certainly helped lessen PMS/PMDD symptoms, so I wanted to share an example of a realistic meal plan with your hormonal health in mind. My hope is that after reading this, you'll be able to develop your own meal plan for each phase.