Biologically active food additives in stress-related menstrual cycle disorders

Stress-related menstrual cycle disorders (MCDs) is a common reason for seeking gynecological care. Due to their functional origin, MCDs need better adaptive reserve restoration rather than hormonal intervention, at least at the first stage of treatment. Resistance against the action of stressors and predisposition to develop stress-related disorders are determined by genetic and modifiable factors, not least of which is the nutritional status of individuals. The nutritional status can be corrected by a wide use of vitamins, minerals and plant extracts with antioxidant effects and properties regulating neuroendocrine response to stress. Such nutrient substances may be administered in accordance with the physiological needs of the follicular/ proliferative and luteal/secretory phases of the menstrual cycle. Biologically active food additives derived from foods contribute to the development of a systemic neurohormonal response and cell adaptation to stress. They have comprehensive and multidirectional effects, which are important for the proper functioning of the reproductive system. Alternative or supplemental products are increasingly used in the therapy of any and all diseases and pathological conditions. Short-term menstrual cycle disorders such as oligomenorrhea or high variability in cycle length due to stress factors can be resolved in the context of therapeutic lifestyle modification using biologically active food additives with antioxidants and adaptogenic effects without additional prescription of hormone therapy. Biologically active food additives can be used as supplemental non-medicinal products as part of complex therapy in other menstrual cycle disorders or endocrine diseases.