Nutrition can support healthy menstrual cycles in a 14-year-old, but irregular periods should not be treated with supplements alone. Periods can be irregular during the first few years after menarche
3 main meals + 2 nutritious snacks; avoid skipping meals or restrictive dieting.
* Protein every meal: dal, beans, paneer/curd, milk, eggs, fish/chicken if non-veg.
* Iron-rich foods: green leafy vegetables, lentils, rajma/chana, sesame, dates/raisins, eggs/meat if non-veg +
vitamin-C foods such as amla, guava, orange.
*
Calcium +
vitamin D: milk/curd/paneer, ragi, sesame; regular safe sunlight exposure.
* Healthy fats: nuts/seeds, peanut, sesame, flax/chia, adequate cooking oil.
* Plenty of vegetables, fruits and whole grains.
* Limit frequent junk food, sugary drinks and highly processed snacks.
* Avoid calorie-restricted weight-loss diets in a growing teenager, particularly if she is underweight or exercising heavily. Low energy intake can contribute to menstrual problems.