Title:  Fasting Based on Menstrual Cycle Phase: Review of Literature, Physiologic Plausibility and Clinical Application

Background:  Fasting is a common dietary approach employed by patients hoping to achieve multiple metabolic benefits. Fasting has been associated with weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity and a multitude of health benefits. However, there is concern about the application of fasting for those seeking fertility as fasting may affect gonadotropin production. To date, there has been little research done to understand the effects of fasting on the menstrual cycle as well as targeting fasting to the phases of the menstrual cycle.

Methods: A review of menstrual cycle physiology was performed to better understand potential effects of fasting on the menstrual cycle. A literature review was conducted regarding the application of fasting to various phases of the menstrual cycle. Fasting strategies were employed with interested patients in fasting as a strategy to improve metabolic health.

Results: Physiologic mechanisms for the impact of fasting at different times in the menstrual cycle were identified. Mechanisms were also identified to address polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and the pathologic state of anovulation. Literature review reveals little current research investigating the application of fasting at targeted portions of the menstrual cycle. In clinical practice, patients using fertility awareness methods of
family planning were taught to use biomarkers indicating their phase of the menstrual cycle to employ fasting techniques that may theoretically improve the parameters of the menstrual cycle.

Consulsions: There is physiologic plausibility to the use of fasting targeted to the phase of the menstrual cycle to improve menstrual cycle parameters and fertility. There are theoretical benefits for the use of fasting in the pathologic state of anovulation with PCOS. Research regarding fasting and the phase of the menstrual cycle is currently lacking and worth further investigation.

Keywords: Fasting, PCOS, cycle syncing, metabolism

Accepted for Presentation: June 7, 2023.
Presented: September 29, 2023.

Corresponding Author: William Nolan, MD¹ (w.a.nolan24@gmail.com)

¹ Medical UPMC of Central PA., USA.

Conflict of Interest Disclosures: No disclosures or fees were reported or received.

Cite: Nolan,W.   (2023, September 29). Fasting Based on Menstrual Cycle Phase: Review of Literature, Physiologic Plausibility and Clinical Application, [Conference presentation abstract]. Revitalizing Women's Healthcare Together. Minneapolis, MN, USA.