Can Your Diet Keep Your Period On Track?
Can Your Diet Keep Your Period On Track?
Why It Matters
What you eat plays a crucial role in maintaining your menstrual cycle. Learn how diet influences functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) and what changes can help.
Contents
- The Energy Balance Equation
- The Role of Nutrients
The Energy Balance Equation
FHA often occurs when your body doesn't get enough energy from food, especially if you're expending a lot through exercise. This energy shortfall causes the body to divert resources away from non-essential functions like reproduction. Eating enough calories to match your activity level is vital for menstrual health.
The Role of Nutrients
Certain dietary patterns can increase the risk of FHA. Low fat intake and high fiber diets are common among those with FHA, as these can lead to insufficient energy availability. Ensuring a balanced intake of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates supports hormonal balance and menstrual regularity.
FAQs
How does diet affect FHA?
Diet influences energy availability and hormone production.
What nutrients are important for menstrual health?
Balanced intake of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates is key.
Can dieting lead to FHA?
Yes, especially if it results in low energy availability.
What is energy availability?
It's the energy left after exercise, vital for reproductive health.
The Bottom Line
Dietary choices can significantly impact menstrual health and overall well-being.
Additional References
- Shangold MM. Athletic amenorrhea. Clin Obstet Gynecol 1985; 28:664.
- Frisch RE, Wyshak G, Vincent L. Delayed menarche and amenorrhea in ballet dancers. N Engl J Med 1980; 303:17.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.