Will dieting and weight loss lead to amenorrhea

Dieting to lose weight may lead to amenorrhea, which is usually related to factors such as insufficient energy intake and hormonal imbalances. Amenorrhea may be induced by diseases such as hypothalamic dysfunction, low body fat percentage, malnutrition, thyroid dysfunction, or polycystic ovary syndrome caused by excessive dieting, manifested as menstrual cessation for more than 3 months. Suggest adjusting dietary structure and consulting a gynecologist.

1. Hypothalamic dysfunction

Long term extreme dieting can reduce the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone by the hypothalamus, leading to dysfunction of the pituitary ovarian axis. This situation is usually accompanied by rapid weight loss and a decrease in basal metabolic rate. It is recommended to gradually restore a balanced diet, with a daily calorie intake of no less than 1200 calories, and to cooperate with a gynecologist's hormone assessment. If necessary, medication such as estradiol valerate tablets and progesterone capsules can be used to regulate the menstrual cycle.

2. Low body fat percentage

Women with body fat percentage below 17% may affect estrogen synthesis, as estrogen is partially converted from adipose tissue. This type of closure is often accompanied by symptoms such as dry skin and osteoporosis. It is necessary to increase healthy fat intake such as nuts and deep-sea fish to improve body fat percentage. It is also recommended to test bone density, supplement calcium carbonate D3 tablets and vitamin D drops to prevent bone loss.

3. Malnutrition

Insufficient intake of protein, iron, and vitamin B can lead to decreased hematopoietic function and hindered endometrial growth. Symptoms such as low hemoglobin and fatigue may occur, and the intake of lean meat, animal liver, and green leafy vegetables should be increased. Severe anemia patients can follow the doctor's advice to take ferrous succinate tablets, folic acid tablets, and vitamin B12 tablets for improvement.

4. Thyroid dysfunction

Excessive dieting may lead to insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones, manifested as elevated levels of thyroid stimulating hormone. These types of amenorrhea patients often have symptoms such as fear of cold, edema, constipation, etc. They need to have their thyroid function checked for five items. After diagnosis, they should be treated with levothyroxine sodium tablets, and daily intake of iodized salt and seafood should be ensured.

5. Rapid weight loss in polycystic ovary syndrome

may exacerbate insulin resistance, induce elevated androgen levels, and ovulation disorders. These patients are often accompanied by symptoms such as acne, hirsutism, and obesity. Metformin sustained-release tablets should be used to regulate metabolism, and ethinylestradiol and cyproterone acetate tablets should be used to reduce testosterone. It is also recommended to adopt a low glycemic index diet combined with regular exercise. During the recovery period, it is important to ensure daily intake of high-quality protein, complex carbohydrates, and unsaturated fatty acids, with priority given to foods such as fish and shrimp, brown rice, and olive oil. Engage in moderate aerobic exercise such as brisk walking or swimming every week, and avoid high-intensity training. It is recommended to have a quarterly review of six hormone tests and ultrasound examination. If amenorrhea persists for more than 6 months, organic diseases such as pituitary tumors should be screened. psychological factors may also affect menstrual recovery, and if necessary, seek intervention from a psychologist.