Association of Premenstrual Syndrome with Adiposity and Nutrient Intake Among Young Indian Women

Abstract

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to a heterogenous group of symptoms occurring in luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Women of childbearing age are affected by PMS, and it may impact their quality of life. Various factors related to the biology of menstruation, hormones, and lifestyle are associated with PMS. Purpose To explore the incidence and severity of PMS among students in India and its correlation with nutrient intake, adiposity, and lifestyle factors. Methods A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on menstrual pattern, nutrient intake, dietary habits, and physical activity. Moose’s Menstrual Distress Questionnaire and Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool were employed for the identification and classification of PMS. Anthropometric indices included height, weight, body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and four-site skinfold thickness—tricep, bicep, subscapular, and suprailiac. Results Of the 330 participants, 71.3% reported to have experienced at least one symptom of PMS. Furthermore, 46.9% had mild PMS, 31.5% had moderate PMS, 8.3% had strong PMS, and 13.3% had no symptoms. Anxiety and irritability were the most observed symptoms. The mean body mass index (BMI) of the participants was within the normal range (21.76 ± 4.81 kg/m 2 ); however, body fat percentage was above the normal range (33.95% ± 4.89%). PMS severity was significantly correlated with body fat percentage and BMI. Nutrient intake was significantly lower than the recommended dietary allowance (RDA), but dietary fat consumption was higher than the RDA. Protein intake was higher in participants with mild PMS than those with moderate and severe PMS (p<0.05). An inverse association between oilseed consumption and PMS was observed. Conclusion PMS was associated with anthropometric parameters, nutrient intake, and dietary preference. PMS showed correlation with the intake of calorie-rich foods, sweets, and fried salted snacks, whereas consumption of oilseeds alleviated its incidence.

Late Luteal Subphase Food Craving Is Enhanced in Women with Obesity and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

“…A cross-sectional study by Masho et al [5] found a nearly three-fold increase in risk in PMDD in women with vs without obesity, while an analysis of the prospective data from the Nurses' Health Study 2 by Bertone-Johnson et al [19] demonstrated that the risk for PMDD increases by 3% for every 1 kg per meter square increase in BMI. The correlation between obesity and PMDD in adult women also extends to adolescent girls [20] and non-Western populations [21]. Investigators from the Growing Up Today Study (1996-2013) [2] used prospective data to clarify the relationship between childhood BMI and subsequent risk of premenstrual disorders (premenstrual syndrome-the less severe form of PMDD, and PMDD).…”

Impact of nutritional diet therapy on premenstrual syndrome

“…At the same time, a diet with excess sugars, especially simple fats, fried foods, coffee, and alcohol, correlates positively with the development of PMS. In order to reduce PMS symptoms, the authors recommend a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and healthy fiber (23,(37)(38)(39).…”

A Study on Prevalence of Pre Menstrual Syndrome, Its Association With Dietary Habits and Stress Levels Among Adoloscent Girls Studying in Girls College of Hyderabad

“…[39].  Another study conducted by Thakur H (in the year 2022) indicated that eating calories-rich foods, sweets, and fried salty snacks had an association with PMS, whereas eating oilseeds reduced the occurrence of the condition [43].  A study conducted by AE Seedhom et al,(in the year 2013) showed that excessive consumption of sweet foods like chocolates, cakes, and desserts had a significant impact on the occurrence of PMS since students who consumed these foods regularly had a higher rate of the condition (88.5%) than those who did not (70.2%; p>0.0001).…”