Can anorexia cause loss of period?
Can anorexia cause loss of period?
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Yes, anorexia can indeed cause a loss of the menstrual period. This condition, often seen in those with anorexia, happens primarily due to insufficient body fat and hormone imbalances. Dr. Andrew Huberman explains that when body fat levels are very low due to anorexia, there isn't enough production of the hormone leptin. This reduction in leptin fails to trigger the necessary hormonal responses in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which are essential for menstruation 1.
Hunger Signals
Andrew explains how the body fat and gut neurons signal to the brain to regulate hunger and satiety. Leptin is a key hormone that triggers the deployment of eggs in females and the production of sperm in males. The body has multiple signals that direct us toward eating more or less.
Huberman Lab
Healthy Eating & Eating Disorders - Anorexia, Bulimia, Binging | Huberman Lab Podcast #36
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