Contents
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.
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.
The Bottom Line
Dietary choices can significantly impact menstrual health and overall well-being.
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. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?