You probably already know how CODE RED eating will lead to weight loss and a host of other possible health benefits, but it may also be the reason your cycle has become irregular or halted completely. CODE RED style of eating has been linked to weight loss and other health benefits, but it can also have a strange effect on your period. Some women report having irregular period, while others say their monthly cycle stopped. Some even start back to having a period after years of not having one. BUT ALSO - Overweight people who lose weight may see periods return. Weight gain often leads to difficulty with ovulation and losing weight may make periods reappear.
There are several theories on why this happens:
1. Cutting out processed foods and sugar is often associated with changes in periods however it is likely related to your weight loss itself. As weight drops, so does estrogen levels. This is the hormone partly in charge of regulating your periods.
2. Body composition changes can alter GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone ) levels This is another hormone used in period regulation.
3. Leptin is made by the adipose tissue (fat-storing cells) in your body. Its main role is to regulate fat storage and how many calories you eat and burn. Leptin released from adipose cells travels to the brain via the bloodstream when you lose weight. It acts on the hypothalamus in the brain, which regulates hormones in your body
4. Adipose cells release all the other molecules they've hoarded, too. That includes key hormones like estrogen, along with fat-soluble vitamins and any organic pollutants that found their way into your bloodstream as you gained weight. This is often found to cause hormone shifts as well.
All this to say that hormone shifts are normal during weight loss. Here are some things that might help!
1. Be patient and kind to yourself while your hormones are getting adjusted. It is going to take some time.
2. NEVER skimp on your water. It will help you flush and regulate.
3. You have to keep regular with your bowel movements so your body can get rid of what is not needed.
4. If you are feeling “off”, grace yourself with extra sleep/rest.
5. How can you take care of yourself during this time?
6. If you are concerned, please seek out the advice of your personal care provider. Keep in mind that your eating may not be to blame at all. Missed periods can be a sign of a larger health issue, such as hormone imbalance, genetic abnormalities or PCOS.