Can Your Diet Keep Your Period On Track?
Published: Nov 07, 2023
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
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Diet influences energy availability and hormone production.
Balanced intake of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates is key.
Yes, especially if it results in low energy availability.
It's the energy left after exercise, vital for reproductive health.
Key Takeaways
Dietary choices can significantly impact menstrual health and overall well-being.
Curious about how your diet affects your cycle? Ask Doctronic for more insights!Related Articles
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.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.