Keto Diet and the Menstrual Cycle

What is the Keto o Ketogenic diet?

The ketogenic diet is an eating plan that consists of consuming mostly fatty foods. Between 60% and 80% of calories come from fat, and considerably decreases carbohydrates. 


Originally, this diet began to be implemented to improve certain health conditions, especially those related to the central nervous system, such as epilepsy, Parkinson's, or Alzheimer's disease. Other conditions that can be controlled thanks to this diet are diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome.

Effects on the Menstrual Cycle

This diet, in women, can generate certain changes both positive and negative, especially in the menstrual cycle. 

Therefore, it is recommended that before considering it as a lifestyle, it is important to consult with your doctor.


It is common to hear that some women who have managed to lose weight quickly thanks to the Keto diet have noticed the absence of their menstrual cycle in two or even three months. If this happens, it is best to visit a specialist to rule out a concerning problem or pregnancy.


This situation is normal when eating habits are suddenly altered, especially considering that the keto diet decreases carbohydrates almost completely. 


Experts recommend that to avoid this, in the first weeks of the diet, do not overexert yourself and restrict carbohydrates little by little, always with the help of a nutritionist.


Although there is not enough evidence, some studies proved that due to the sudden decrease of carbohydrates, the brain begins to decrease or vary the release of luteinizing hormone, which contributes to ovulation in women occurring regularly.


In the case of women who have ovarian cysts or suffer from polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), the keto diet can be of great help. That is because usually, these problems are closely related to obesity.


In addition, with PCOS, there is an excess of insulin and increased levels of androgens and testosterone, decreasing the production of estrogen, which in turn decreases ovulation. 


The keto diet can help improving estrogen production, regulating ovulation, and contributing to the improvement of fertility in women. 


Altoguh, it's essential to have a nutritionist to guide them throughout the process and avoid negative effects.