The ketogenic (keto) diet has gained attention for its weight loss benefits, but recent research from Ohio State University suggests it could also be beneficial for women struggling with menstrual irregularities. Published in PLOS ONE, the study shows how the keto diet may improve reproductive health by helping regulate menstrual cycles, even bringing them back for women who haven't menstruated in nearly a year. The keto diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat regimen that shifts the body’s primary energy source from glucose (found in carbs) to fat.
In the absence of carbs, the liver begins to break down fats into ketones, a process called nutritional ketosis. This state encourages the body to burn fat for energy, which has been widely recognized as an effective method for weight management. However, this study reveals additional benefits related to hormonal health and menstrual regulation.
How Does Keto Impact Menstrual Cycles? In the study, researchers examined 19 healthy, overweight women, with an average age of 34, and divided them into three groups. One group followed a strict keto diet, another combined the keto diet with ketone supplements, and a third control group adhered to a low-fat diet. Remarkably, 11 out of 13 women who entered nutritional ketosis showed significant improvements in their menstrual cycles, experiencing more regular and sometimes more intense cycles.
One participant, who had been amenorrheic (absent menstrual periods) for months, saw her cycle retu.
