OBJECTIVE: This study assessed the nutritional status and food intake of healthy young women during the menstrual cycle. METHODS: Forty-five volunteers were followed for three months. Their nutritional status was determined by body mass index, body fat and total body water. Six food recall instruments were used to evaluate food group intake according to the food guide pyramid. Food cravings were detected by three daily symptom charts. RESULTS: The mean body mass index and body fat were normal in both phases; however, there was a higher percentage of women with above-average body water during the luteal phase (77%). The consumption of foods from the complementary group was higher during the luteal phase. The consumption of foods from all other groups during both phases was below the recommended levels, except for meats. Food cravings were mild during the entire menstrual cycle and there were no significant differences between the phases. Food cravings were positively associated with increased intake of foods from the complementary group. CONCLUSION: In healthy women, the menstrual cycle influences food consumption and the luteal phase causes water retention.
Menstrual cycle; Food consumption; Nutritional status; Premenstrual syndrome
