Hormonal imbalances caused by fasting: What you need to know
Siddhartha Jana
Fasting, especially prolonged or regular fasting, can cause hormonal fluctuations that affect essential bodily functions like the menstrual cycle, metabolism, and stress responses.
Source: Canva
Insulin levels drop during fasting as the body shifts to stored energy, affecting blood sugar regulation, while cortisol, the stress hormone, may increase with extended fasting.
Source: Canva
Elevated cortisol levels can disrupt reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone, potentially leading to menstrual irregularities and mood swings.
Source: Canva
Fasting reduces leptin, a hormone responsible for regulating appetite, which may affect energy balance and reproductive health, including menstrual cycles and fertility.
Source: Canva
Fasting can impact the menstrual cycle, leading to delayed or missed periods, lighter periods, or hormonal imbalances such as fatigue and mood swings.
Source: Canva
Women with pre-existing hormonal conditions, like PCOS, may experience worsened symptoms when fasting.
Source: Canva
To fast mindfully, it's important to stay hydrated and consume nutrient-dense foods during non-fasting hours, including proteins, healthy fats, and fiber to support hormone balance.
Source: Canva
Certain women, such as those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have eating disorders, or metabolic conditions, should avoid fasting or do so only under medical supervision.
Source: Canva
Understanding kidney scarring: Causes, complications and prevention