Analysis of Menstruation Occurenece and Current Emotion on Energy Intake: A Pilot Study
Keywords:
menstruation, emotions, food intakeAbstract
Background: Indonesia is still facing issues with overweight and obesity, especially among women. Food intake is influenced by various factors, including menstrual status and emotions, but research results on the effect of both on eating behavior are still inconsistent. Purpose: This study aims to analyze the relationship between menstrual cycle and emotions with food intake in healthy young adult women. Methods: This study is an analytical observational quantitative study with a cross-sectional design using data from the main study conducted in January 2026 at State University of Surabaya. A total of 18 women aged 20-22 years with normal nutritional status were selected using purposive sampling. Respondents underwent a food eating test, beginning with the completion of questionnaires on menstrual status and emotions, consuming a standard breakfast, and being given high-fat ad libitum meal after 3 hours. Energy intake was calculated using food weighing. Data were analyzed using an independent sample t-test. Result: Ad libitum energy intake (kcal) did not have significantly between menstrual status (p=0.815) or emotions (p=0.328). Conclusion: Menstrual status and emotions at the time of measurement are not associated with energy intake in healthy young adult women. Futhermore, research involving a larger sample size cloud be conducted to confirm more accurate results.
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