Bonking & Menses

[shootingstar]

I gain about 5 pounds water weight in my monthly cycle. I think this is worse than life years past now that I am in perimenopause. I shed the weight literally within a couple days in the cycle all at one time. Usually post ovulation, but before the start of actual menses.

During this time, I also just feel so "flu-ish" is the best word to describe it. Or almost like I'm 1st trimester pregnant... like morning sickness. Part of this is perimenopause my gyno tells me (hormone related changes etc.). So be it.

The issue is now that I am training for a century, is how not to bonk during this time. I had this happen within the last two weeks. At first I didn't realize why I bonked until I went back through my training log. I really tried to supplement with salty foods in the hot weather, used electrolyte drink mix, etc.

On the bonking ride, I figured out I lost 5 pounds from a Wednesday to a Sunday. Later counting back in my cycle... I dumped my water I gain w/menses. Btw, my average weight lately has been 120-125#s... 5' 4 1/2" tall, so 5#s lose is a lot I think.

Thx!
Miranda

If you feel 'fluish', do you want to eat much at all before a ride? Does it disrupt your sleep much? Up to 5 lb. water weight gain sounds normal but at least you know you lose it even though it is a bit on high side. (I think I gain 2-3 lbs. on water retention, and this is just from have salty food in meal and liquids.)

Have been in perimenopause for past 2 yrs. or so, but I only feel flushed for 5-15 min. several times ..a month. So I'm not the best person for advice. For certain, my symptoms are so mild that I wouldn't even recognize it while I'm pumping away on the bike.