Nowadays, the number of girls starting menstruation at the age of just 8 to 10 years is increasing rapidly. Where girls used to hit puberty between 13 and 15 in the past, research shows that these physical changes are now beginning to appear at a much younger age. In medical terms this is called 'pre-conscious puberty' or premature adulthood. Many global researches have revealed that changing lifestyle, obesity and non-vegetarian diet especially among children is a major reason behind this. As a parent, you will surely face these things. Let us see the reason behind this and the solution here today.
Meat and Premature Menopause: What Does the Scientific Research Say?
Various studies have been conducted worldwide on the prevalence of meat consumption in children and the timing of puberty in girls, some of which are as follows,
1. University of Brighton and Bristol studies (UK)
The long-term study 'Children of the 90s' in the UK examined the diets of more than 3,000 girls. It found that girls who ate meat more than 12 times a week between ages 3 and 7 were 49% more likely to start menarche before age 12.5. In contrast, the figure was only 35% among girls who ate less meat.
2. University of Michigan Research (USA):
According to the study, published in Public Health Nutrition, girls whose diets were high in red meat started menstruating an average of 5 months earlier than girls who ate less meat.
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Main causes of premature aging due to meat diet
1. Too much animal protein and IGF-1:
A large amount of animal proteins from meat increases the level of the hormone 'insulin-like growth factor-1' (IGF-1) in the body. This hormone accelerates body growth and signals the brain to age prematurely.
2. Synthetic Hormones in Poultry and Farms:
Market farms these days often use steroids, growth hormones and antibiotics to make chickens and animals grow faster. Such a meat diet disturbs the balance of the female hormone estrogen in the body of children.
3. Excess body fat and estrogen:
Meat is high in saturated fat. Due to this, children gain weight rapidly. Fat cells in the body convert androstenedione into estrogen. The increase in estrogen causes rapid breast development and premature menstruation.
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Effects on menstruation and health of girls
Irregular Menstruation and Pain: At a young age, the uterus and hormonal system are not fully developed. Therefore, premature menstruation can cause severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding or irregular periods.
Risk of PCOS/PCOD: Hormonal imbalance during childhood increases the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) during adolescence.
Stunting of height: After aging, the growth of bones in the body stops. Therefore, if menstruation occurs at a young age, the height of girls stops before they reach full height.
Mental stress and fear: A girl of just 8 to 10 years of age finds it difficult to deal with the physical and mental changes associated with menstruation. This can lead to symptoms of irritability, fear and depression.
Serious diseases in the future: According to researchers, girls who menstruate at a very young age are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer, ovarian cancer and heart disease in adulthood.
What should parents be careful about?
Meat in moderation: Meat provides essential nutrients such as iron and zinc, so there is no need to completely cut out meat. However, meat should be avoided more than 1-2 times a week.
Include fish: According to research, girls who eat fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids have a lower risk of premature menstruation.
Increase fiber and vegetables: Diet should include leafy vegetables, fruits, whole grains and plant-based proteins.
Physical Activity: Children should get at least 45 to 60 minutes of outdoor play or exercise daily to keep their weight under control.
