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How Nutrition Affects Menstruation

Writer: Anne McNairn RDAnne McNairn RD

women hugging pillow on bed

Have you ever thought about nutrition and menstruation? Do you menstruate? Which phase of your cycle are you in? What’s happening with your hormones? Do your cravings shift throughout your cycle? 


How many of those questions can you answer? How well do you know and understand your body? If the answer is ‘not well’ or ‘not much’, it’s not your fault. We aren’t taught these things. But it doesn’t mean that you can’t learn to be in better relationship with yourself now. 


Nutrition is amazing. What we ingest affects our hormones, mood, menstruation, fertility and so on.


People who are under-nourished are more likely to experience amenorrhea (no period). This can translate into fertility issues. Our body requires adequate nutrients to support hormone production. 


Hormones that fluctuate throughout your menstrual cycle:

  • Estrogen

  • Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)

  • Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)

  • Luteinizing hormone (LH)

  • Progesterone  


Are you eating enough calories? Protein? Fat? Specific nutrients that help with hormone production?


How to support the female hormone cycle

  • Eating enough calories

  • Healthy fats

  • Omega 3

  • Protein

  • Fibre

  • Cruciferous vegetables

  • Vitamin D


If you need help, a Registered Dietitian (me) can help you.


 
 
 

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