Effects of Dietary Nitrate in Women With Secondary Amenorrhea
Excessive exercise, disordered attitudes toward eating, physical and psychological stress, and/or hormonal imbalances may result in cessation of menstruation (secondary amenorrhea). The accompanying lack of estrogen may impair muscle power and oxygen recovery after exercise by reducing nitric oxide levels. The purpose of this study is to determine whether ingestion of beetroot juice containing nitrate, an alternative source of nitric oxide, can help reverse these changes.
• Women age 18-44 years old
• Missed \>3 consecutive periods in the last 12 months if previously regularly menstruating (average cycle 21-35 d) OR
• Missed \>6 consecutive periods in the last 12 month if previously irregularly menstruating (spontaneous menstruation, average cycle \<21 or \> 35 d)