How to boost metabolism in Hypothalamic Amenorrhea

When you restrict your calorie intake, your body responds by slowing down your metabolism. This is a natural survival mechanism that dates back to our evolutionary history when food was scarce. By reducing the rate at which your body burns calories, your body conserves energy and tries to maintain its energy balance during times of reduced food availability; it enters its power saving mode.

Mechanisms responsible for slowing down your metabolism when you restrict your intake

Reduced Thyroid Hormone Production

Caloric restriction can lead to a decrease in the production of thyroid hormones, which play a crucial role in regulating metabolism. Lower levels of thyroid hormones can slow down various metabolic processes as digestion and formation of bones.

Adaptive Thermogenesis

Your body can adapt to a lower calorie intake by becoming more efficient at conserving energy. This is known as adaptive thermogenesis. Non-essential activities, like maintaining body temperature or reproduction may be reduced to conserve energy.

Changes in Hormones

Caloric restriction can lead to changes in hormone levels due to alterations in energy availability. One of the primary hormones involved in ovulation is Luteinizing Hormone (LH). If you are restricting your calories, GnRH and thereby LH levels will decrease, which prevents the development and release of an egg from the ovaries - Hypothalamic Amenorrhea is a fact

Hormones such as leptin and ghrelin, which regulate hunger and satiety, can be influenced by calorie restriction. Leptin levels, which signal fullness to the brain, may decrease, leading to increased hunger and a slower metabolism.

As you can see, your metabolism is neither broken nor permanently damaged. Your body is doing everything it can to keep you safe and alive. So how do you boost your metabolism in Hypothalamic Amenorrhea?

How to boost metabolism in Hypothalamic Amenorrhea

As we know now, your body have adapted to the reduced energy intake by slowing down your metabolism. To reverse this condition you need to *drum-roll* increase your energy intake again! You’ll need to signal to your body that the times of scarcity and famine are over, and that it can trust that you continuously and regularly will provide it with sufficient energy. The sooner you can increase your intake, the faster your body will ramp up its metabolism again. And the faster you will regain your period and recover from Hypothalamic Amenorrhea!