Is Being Underweight Causing My Period to Stop? Nutrition Tips for Teens - Nutrition

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Being underweight can indeed affect your menstrual cycle, leading to irregularities or even a complete cessation of menstruation, known as amenorrhea. This is particularly concerning for adolescents, as your body is still developing and requires adequate nutrition to support growth, hormonal balance, and reproductive health.
Based on your height of approximately 150 cm and weight of 32-33 kg, your Body Mass Index (BMI) is around 14.2, which is significantly below the normal range. A BMI below 18.5 is classified as underweight, and being underweight can lead to various health issues, including hormonal imbalances that may disrupt your menstrual cycle. When the body does not receive enough calories or nutrients, it may prioritize essential functions over reproductive health, leading to missed periods.

To improve your situation, it is crucial to focus on a balanced diet that provides sufficient calories and nutrients. Here are some nutrition tips specifically tailored for teens:
1. Increase Caloric Intake: Aim to consume more calories than you currently do. This can be achieved by incorporating nutrient-dense foods into your meals. Foods rich in healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, can help increase your caloric intake without requiring you to eat large volumes of food.

2. Balanced Meals: Ensure that each meal contains a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. For example, include whole grains (like brown rice or whole grain bread), lean proteins (such as chicken, fish, or legumes), and plenty of fruits and vegetables. This balance will help provide the necessary nutrients your body needs.

3. Frequent Meals: Instead of three large meals, consider eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This can help you consume more calories and nutrients without feeling overly full at any one time.

4. Healthy Snacks: Incorporate healthy snacks between meals. Options like yogurt, smoothies, nut butter on whole-grain toast, or trail mix can be excellent choices to boost your caloric intake.

5. Hydration: Stay hydrated, but avoid filling up on low-calorie beverages. Opt for smoothies or milk instead of just water to add calories.

6. Monitor Your Progress: Keep track of your weight and menstrual cycle. If you notice improvements in your weight and regularity of your periods, that’s a positive sign. However, if your periods do not return or if you continue to lose weight, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian.

Regarding your question about eating fruit after lunch, consuming a piece of fruit like guava after your meal is perfectly fine. Fruits are an essential part of a balanced diet and provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Just be mindful of portion sizes and try to include a variety of fruits to ensure you’re getting a range of nutrients.

In summary, being underweight can significantly impact your menstrual health, and it’s essential to focus on a balanced diet that supports your growth and hormonal balance. If you have concerns about your weight or menstrual cycle, consider seeking guidance from a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian who can provide personalized advice and support. Remember, your health is a priority, and making gradual, sustainable changes to your diet can lead to positive outcomes.