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Changes in body weight and body composition during the menstrual cycle
Spyridon Kanellakis1, Efstathios Skoufas2, Eleftheria Simitsopoulou3
1Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Harokopio University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
Summary
Women experience a slight body weight increase of about 0.5 kg during their menstrual cycle, primarily due to fluid retention. This study clarifies periodic body composition changes in women of reproductive age.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Women's Health
- Body Composition Analysis
Background:
- Menstrual cycle's impact on body weight and composition is widely perceived but lacks consistent scientific evidence due to varied methodologies.
- Previous studies yielded controversial results regarding menstrual cycle-related body weight fluctuations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential changes in body weight and body composition throughout the menstrual cycle.
- To establish if the menstrual cycle influences women's body weight and composition.
Main Methods:
- 42 women were monitored twice weekly throughout their menstrual cycle.
- Measurements included body weight, circumferences, skinfolds, and body composition via bioelectrical impedance analysis.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant increase in body weight (0.450 kg) was observed during menstruation compared to the first week.
- This weight gain was linked to a significant rise in extracellular water (0.474 kg).
- No other significant changes in body composition were detected.
Conclusions:
- A modest body weight increase of approximately 0.5 kg occurs during the menstrual cycle, mainly from extracellular fluid retention.
- These findings offer a clearer interpretation of periodic body weight and composition fluctuations in women of reproductive age.
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