Question

Female athletes who train intensively often stop menstruating, or menstruate infrequently. An important factor in appears to be the reduction of body fat below a certain level. Propose a possible evolutionary explanation for a relationship between body fat in females and reproductive cycles.

Answer 1

The normal body fat level for females is 17 to 22 percent for proper functioning of menstrual cycle. Below this level of body fat can increases the risk of menstrual abnormalities. We know females have an enzyme, estrogen, a fat derived enzyme. The fat cells present in a female's body, contribute 1/3 parts of total estrogen production. So, when the amount of body fat becomes lower, the production of estrogen is also hampered. For this reason, female athletes who train intensively often stop menstruating, or menstruate infrequently.