Whether you are on a keto diet or not, your menstrual cycle is not something that should be ignored. You should talk to your gynecologist about any problems you may be experiencing.
The menstrual cycle is divided into the follicular phase and the luteal phase. The luteal phase involves the production of progesterone and estrogen. The follicular phase is the time when the ovaries are stimulated by the luteinizing hormone to produce the egg.
The follicle-stimulating hormone releases the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) which signals the pituitary to release the luteinizing hormone. This hormone is necessary for a normal period. If you have low levels of estrogen, you may experience breast pain or back pain, or you may have an irregular menstrual cycle.
Excessive exercise can also disrupt your menstrual cycle. For example, an abrupt onset of high volume endurance training can cause a woman to miss her period. In addition, the hormonal fluctuations associated with stress can affect your reproductive system.
The keto diet can affect your menstrual cycle in a few different ways. The diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate plan. It is designed to switch your body from burning glucose to burning fat. The ketones, which are anti-inflammatory, are used more efficiently by your brain than glucose.
In some cases, you may experience amenorrhea or a nonexistent menstrual cycle. You should consult your doctor before starting a keto diet. You may need to take medication to get your hormones back into balance.