The effect of the human menstrual cycle on kilocalorie and nutrient intake

Abstract

Kilocalorie, protein, fat and carbohydrate intakes of five women were examined during the period of at least one menstrual cycle. Kilocalorie intake was significantly lower in the periovulatory phase of the cycle compared to the midluteal phase (t=2.10, p <.05). Carbohydrate and fat intakes were higher, although not significantly, during the midluteal phase compared to the periovulatory phase. Mean intake was 85 kilocalories higher in the postovulatory phase compared to preovulatory, but the difference was not significant. Mean carbohydrate and fat intakes were also increased, but not significantly, in the postovulatory phase. Protein intakes remained relatively stable when phases of the cycle were compared. A spectral analysis of variance produced two cycles showing monophasic sine component variations. Protein intake had a significant monophasic variation in two cycles; fat and carbohydrate had significant monophasic variation in one cycle each. The period of two to four days contained the most often significant sine components (10) and the period of five to seven days was next with five significant values.