Department of Nutrition Student Projects

Submission Date

4-14-2025

Document Type

Undergraduate Project

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition (BSHN)

First Mentor

Charvet, Andrea, Ph.D., RDN, LDN

Keywords

FHA, Menstrual Cycle, Macronutrients, Diet, Exercise, Energy Deficient, Young Women Ages 18-25, Stress, Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian Axis, Energy Distribution, Caloric Intake, Menstrual health

Abstract

Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) is characterized by irregular or absent menstrual cycles due to disturbances in the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis. Young women ages 18-25 are particularly vulnerable to FHA, which can have long-term consequences on bone health, fertility, and overall well-being. While meeting energy needs is essential for recovery, the question arises of whether different macronutrient distributions within an energy-sufficient diet influence the recovery rate. This study aims to evaluate the impact of varying macronutrient compositions on the recovery of young women with FHA. The study will be conducted using a randomized controlled trial design to examine whether diets with different macronutrient compositions — higher carbohydrates, fat, protein, or balance — significantly impact recovery. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the four diet plans designed to meet their energy requirements. Adherence will be monitored through dietary logs and weekly check-ins with dietitians. Recovery will be assessed over 12 weeks, with data collected at baseline and post-intervention. Hormonal changes, including estradiol, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and cortisol levels, will be measured through blood tests. Menstrual cycle restoration will be tracked using self-reported cycle logs. Body composition, including weight and body fat percentage, will be measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). This research will analyze the role of macronutrient distribution in FHA recovery, contributing to evidence-based dietary guidelines. While all energy-sufficient diets support recovery, specific macronutrient compositions, such as high fat, may accelerate hormonal normalization and menstrual restoration. These findings may help develop tailored nutritional approaches to improve recovery outcomes.

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