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Survey study, 2024

Does diet affect menstrual disorders including PMS?

Yes, poor diet and low physical activity are linked to menstrual disorders including PMS. Women following a Mediterranean diet and exercising regularly had better menstrual health.

Moderate study design 352 female medical and paramedical students in Egypt

What they did

Researchers surveyed 352 female medical and paramedical students in Egypt about their diet, physical activity, and menstrual health including PMS.

What they found

PMS was found in 68.9% of students. Poor adherence to the Mediterranean diet was present in 40.1% and low physical activity in 69.9%. Women with heavy menstrual bleeding and severe period pain reported lower Mediterranean diet adherence.

What it means for you

Better diet and regular physical activity are linked to fewer menstrual problems including PMS. However, this is an observational study, so we cannot say diet causes these changes, only that they are associated.

352

female students

68.9%

with PMS

69.9%

with low physical activity

About the study

Original title
Dietary pattern and menstrual disorders among female university students
Authors
Ahmed GS, Mohamed Lotfy AM
Journal
International journal of adolescent medicine and health
Year
2024
Study design
Survey study

Topics