Difficulty focusing. A little more hungry than usual. A wee bit anxious. I’m talking about my feelings this week. And you know what I have to thank? My luteal phase.

Enter: cycle syncing.

If you’re like me, maybe you’ve heard of cycle syncing, but you’re not privy to the deets. Well, ladies, listen up. (And for the few guys who are here, if your partner is a woman, this could be beneficial for you, too!) I listened to this podcast with Alisa Vitti, hormone expert and creator of the MyFlo app, and it blew my mind!

Now, I am not going to pretend to be an expert on this, because I’m not. But here’s a basic breakdown. Us women have something called the “infradian rhythm”—our unique 28-day cycle—that includes four phases menstrual (bleeding), follicular, ovulatory, and luteal. During each one of these phases, we experience hormone and metabolic changes, and therefore, what our body needs changes, particularly when it comes to diet and fitness, but it also impacts things like productivity, confidence, and how social we feel. 

I consider myself very intuitive with my body, and I’ve noticed that the week or so leading up to my period, I’m always hungrier than usual. (You, too?) Well, guess what I learned from Alisa? During the luteal phase (the phase before your period), your body’s metabolism changes, and it requires that you take in about 300 extra calories per day. (No wonder!!!) By eating a little more heartily, you not only fix the hangry-ness and sugar cravings, but it can also help to keep your neurotransmitters from going hay-wire and prevent moodiness and other common PMS symptoms. 

What this means, ladies, is that we do not have to be a victim to “that time of the month.” When we give our body what it needs, when it needs it, we can keep things in balance. We take back the power!

In the podcast episode, Alisa also talks about caffeine, particularly from coffee. If you follow me on the gram, you might know that I eliminated coffee from my diet just over a month ago and it has been LIFE-CHANGING. Even with just one cup per day, I used to feel SOOO anxious and on the verge of panic attack when I drank coffee leading up to my period. Little did I know, this wasn’t because I was actually going crazy, but because my hormones and neurotransmitters were so off, and coffee only heightened the issue.

I am now 1111% team matcha. And, if I’m honest, I didn’t know I could get here. I LOVED my morning coffee ritual. But I finally created the perfect matcha latte recipe that I literally crave each morning. 

Natalie’s Creamy Coco Matcha Latte

1 serving (about a tsp) organic ceremonial grade matcha powder (My favorite is this one from Kroma. It’s not pure matcha but has added yumminess like bovine collagen, beauty mushrooms, and spices. It is so warming. These two—matcha kari and cymbiotika—are also in rotation. 

About 1 cup hot water and little less than ¼ cup full fat organic coconut milk. I love Native Forest because it is the cleanest—only coconut and filtered water—and I transfer to a glass jar and refrigerate for the week. This adds a little flavor and creaminess. I am sensitive to almond milk so that’s always been a no-go for me, but matcha in just water falls a little flat in my opinion.

1 TBSP of organic MCT oil. This adds a little extra fat to support brain function and metabolizing caffeine. I prefer this one because it is in a glass bottle and lasts forever.

Finally, I add 1 TSP of organic maple syrup. I also enjoy this nootropic creamer and when I want a sweet treat matcha in the afternoon. Adds a hint of vanilla and sweetness without sugar. And, if you don’t have a handheld frother, I would absolutely recommend you get one.

I would love to know what you think about my creamy coco matcha latte—send me a message or tag me on Instagram if you try it!