Athlete and amenorrhea
Last Updated Sep 2007
Q: I have been amenorrhaic (lack of menses) off and on for the last five years due to the intensity of my physical activity and body fat. I would like to begin the Zone Diet and was wondering if the increase in fat will help normalize my system again. I am recently married, and we would like to have children as soon as possible. Currently the majority of my diet consists of veggies and fruits. I even have a yellow hue to my skin due to the excessive amounts I eat. Is this dangerous? I just don't know how to eat anymore and have a fear of fat.
A: You want to add more non-inflammatory (monounsaturated fatty acids) fats and anti- inflammatory EPA and DHA to your diet. As an athlete you also need more protein. Once you do both, the amenorrhea will disappear because you have enough fat stores. This is a diet that both world-class athletes and Hollywood celebrities follow. They both look good in swimsuits.