Ep. 389 No Period Now What? Impact of Diet, Stress, & Genetics with Dr. Nicola Sykes

I am excited to connect with Dr. Nicola Sykes today. 

Dr. Sykes received her Ph.D. in Computational Biology from MIT. After experiencing hypothalamic amenorrhea and discovering a shortage of information about the condition in the public domain, she wrote a comprehensive guide to help people understand it and recover.

In our discussion today, we dive into the nature of hypothalamic amenorrhea and explore its physiology. We address the effects of amenorrhea on eating habits, discuss caloric restrictions, fasting, exercise, and chronic stress, clarify the distinctions between eating disorders and disordered eating, and examine the role of genetics. Dr. Sykes also explains why she does not believe in post-pill amenorrhea, and our conversation touches on differentiators with polycystic ovarian syndrome, symptoms, and lab evaluations.  

Given the frequent concerns from listeners about losing their menstrual cycles, this conversation with Dr. Sykes promises to be particularly valuable for those affected by prolonged fasting and similar issues.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

• Dr. Sykes explains what hypothalamic amenorrhea is and why it is essential for women to understand it
• How a lack of exercise and energy deficits can impact menstruation
• Why we must support our bodies with exercise and proper nutrition rather than focusing on weight loss
• How stress impacts the body, particularly during perimenopause and menopause
• Why rest and recovery are essential when doing high-intensity workouts
• How we need to eat enjoyable foods and focus on moderation instead of striving for an ideal standard
• How disordered eating differs from eating disorders
• The difference between hypothalamic amenorrhea and PCOS
• Some common symptoms of hormone imbalance
• The benefits of tracking menstrual and ovulation cycles

Bio:

Dr Sykes (formerly Rinaldi) has a PhD in computational biology from MIT. After experiencing hypothalamic amenorrhea herself and finding a lack of information about the condition in the public sphere, she set out to write a comprehensive guide to understanding the condition and how to recover. Her book, "No Period. Now What?" has helped thousands of people recover from missing periods and better understand their bodies and hormonal systems. The book has been translated into multiple languages and serves as a guide for numerous dietitians and medical professionals helping those experiencing missing periods.

Connect with Cynthia Thurlow  

• Follow on Twitter
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• Check out Cynthia’s website
• Submit your questions to [email protected]

Connect with Dr. Nicola Sykes

• On her website
• Instagram 
• Support group
• Buy ebook: No Period. Now what?
• Schedule a one-on-one session with Dr. Sykes