Insight 

• Blood Sugar Fluctuations: Registered dietitians emphasize that skipping meals can lead to erratic blood sugar levels, causing spikes and crashes throughout the day. This instability can disrupt hormone production and regulation, affecting menstrual regularity and exacerbating premenstrual symptoms.
• Nutrient Deficiencies: Nutrition experts highlight the importance of regular meals in providing essential nutrients for hormone synthesis and metabolism. Skipping meals deprives the body of vital nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals, which are crucial for maintaining hormonal balance and supporting reproductive function.
• Stress Response: Endocrinologists explain that skipping meals triggers the body's stress response, leading to the release of cortisol and adrenaline. Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels can disrupt the delicate balance of reproductive hormones, potentially causing irregular periods, amenorrhea, or fertility issues.
• Metabolic Rate: Women's health specialists caution that skipping meals can slow down the metabolic rate as the body enters starvation mode to conserve energy. This metabolic slowdown can affect hormone production and utilisation, impacting menstrual regularity and overall well-being.

Advice

• Eat Balanced Meals: Nutritionists advise consuming balanced meals with a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats to support stable blood sugar levels and hormone synthesis.
• Prioritise Regular Eating: Registered dietitian's recommend eating every 3-4 hours to maintain steady energy levels and prevent hormonal fluctuations associated with skipping meals.
• Listen to Your Body: Women's health experts emphasise the importance of tuning into hunger cues and honouring your body's needs by fuelilng it regularly with nutritious foods.
• Plan Ahead: Health professionals suggest meal planning and preparation to ensure access to nourishing meals and snacks throughout the day, even during busy schedules.

Skipping meals can have profound effects on menstrual health and hormone balance, disrupting reproductive function and overall well-being. By heeding expert advice and prioritising regular, balanced eating habits, women can support optimal menstrual health and promote hormonal balance for a more harmonious menstrual cycle. Remember, nourishing your body consistently is key to sustaining reproductive health and overall vitality.