Amenorrhea commonly happens when you cut back too much on fuel and create too much of a calorie deficit. When your body doesn't have enough fuel to function normally, it ceases menses to save calories. The problem is, this is abnormal and can lead to stress fractures and premature osteopororis.

To help resolve this problem, add about 100 calories a day every four days, to get your body out of "hibernation". You likely need an additional 500 calories. If you want more information, please see the chapter on "Dieting Gone Awry" in my Sports Nutrition Guidebook.

Regards,

Nancy Clark MS RD CSSD

Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics