What is Menorexia? Why doctors are warning against its risks and asking you to recognise early signs

The word ‘menorexia,’ which refers to the cessation of menstrual cycles as a result of severe dieting or disordered eating, is causing anxiety among medical professionals. This is a descriptive term rather than a formal diagnosis for a major health risk that can lead to bone loss, hormonal imbalances, metabolic problems, and mental health problems, even in people who seem to be of normal weight.

What is Menorexia?

‘Menorexia’ is a combination of the terms ‘meno,’ which refers to menstruation, and ‘anorexia,’ which is a clinical eating disorder marked by severe dietary restriction. Amenorrhoea, the suppression or lack of menstrual cycles, is a condition characterised by food limitations or disordered eating behaviours.

This disorder often occurs with anorexia nervosa, especially its restrictive variant, in which malnourishment and extremely low body weight can interfere with hormones.

Why It’s a Serious Health Concern

Although the lack of menstruation may appear to be a cosmetic concern, it actually indicates more serious health issues. Suppressed ovulation and menstruation might result from chronic undernutrition or stress from dieting, which lowers the production of reproductive hormones.

Low oestrogen levels can weaken bones over time, raising the risk of fractures and leading to long-term problems with reproduction. People may also suffer from electrolyte imbalances, dry skin, hair loss, weariness, dizziness, and cognitive impairment. Affected individuals also frequently suffer from mood disorders like anxiety and depression.

Many women who suffer from menorexia are not underweight, which is one of the most detrimental traits. The menstruation deficit could be misdiagnosed as stress, PCOS, or other problems because their weight might appear normal or perhaps slightly low.

Early Signs to Watch For

Recognising menorexia early is crucial for effective intervention. Doctors advise looking out for the following signs:

Absence of menstrual periods

One should record any symptoms, such as irregular periods, heavy or intermittent bleeding when periods resume, or a complete stop of menstruation for three or more months. Another sign could be infertility or trouble getting pregnant, even in cases where one’s health appears to be normal.

Behavioural and eating patterns

Obsession with calories, quantities, and food, strict guidelines on ‘safe’ and ‘forbidden’ foods, and continuous dieting or meal skipping. Early-stage menorexia is characterised by labelling, social isolation during mealtimes, avoiding social situations when eating, and making frequent excuses to miss meals or food-related events.

Physical and metabolic indicators

Take note if you experience dizziness, fainting episodes, persistent exhaustion, or abrupt or progressive weight loss. Dry skin, brittleness, hair thinning, and a tendency to feel cold easily, even in warm environments, constipation, bloating, nails, or gastrointestinal distress might also be warning signs.

Low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, bone discomfort, low heart rate, and early fractures—all of which are signs of weakening bones—all also lead in the same direction.

Psychological indicators

Consistent episodes of body dissatisfaction, a negative self-image, or an intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat are signs of menorexia. While minor mood swings are common, persistent irritation or depression during mealtimes is not.