Early puberty is becoming a growing concern for many parents. Menstruation is a natural process for every girl.But when it starts too early, it can bring physical and emotional challenges. Understanding the causes and taking the right precautions can help delay early periods in children.
Why Are Girls Getting Periods at a Young Age?
In the olden days,most of the girls would start their periods between the ages of 13 and 14. But now-a-days,some girls are experiencing menstruation as early as 8 to 10 years old.This is worrying because young children do not have the physical or emotional strength to handle the changes that come with menstruation.
Some of the major reasons for early periods are:
– Unhealthy diet and processed foods.
– Exposure to harmful chemicals in plastic products.
– Childhood obesity and lack of physical activity.
– Reduced exposure to fresh air and sunlight.
How to Delay Early Periods in Girls?
Parents play a crucial role in maintaining their child’s health. Here are some simple precautions to help delay early puberty:
1. Healthy Diet
Try to maintain a balanced diet in your child’s meal.It should be rich in fresh fruits,vegetables and leafy greens. As processed foods contain artificial chemicals which disrupt hormones and trigger early periods should be avoided.
2. Avoid Plastic Products
Use of plastic plates, lunch boxes or bottles for your child should be avoided.In place of plastic choose glass or stainless steel items.Since plastics contain harmful chemicals they may interfere with hormones and may lead to early puberty.
3. Encourage Daily Physical Activity
Regular exercise helps to maintain a healthy weight and also balances hormone levels. Ensure your child should have at least an hour of physical activity every day to promote overall well-being.
4. Outdoor Play & Fresh Air
Spending time outdoors and breathing fresh air is essential for a child’s health. Keeping kids indoors for long periods can lead to obesity which is a leading cause of early menstruation.
5. Exposure to Sunlight
Sunlight helps the body to absorb vitamin D .It plays an important role in hormonal balance. Try to encourage children to play outside in the sun for at least 30 minutes daily.
6. Ensure Proper Sleep
Lack of sleep may affect hormone levels. Make sure that your child gets at least 9 to 10 hours of sleep every night for overall health and balanced growth.
7. Avoid Scented Products
Perfumes and scented body products contain chemicals that can disrupt hormones. Use natural, fragrance-free products to reduce the risk of early puberty.
Parents should take simple steps to delay the onset of menstruation. Including a healthy lifestyle, a nutritious diet, regular exercise and avoiding harmful chemicals can make a significant difference. If you have concerns about your child’s development then it is very important to consult a doctor for guidance.