• Girls with healthier diets, rich in vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, are more likely to experience puberty at a slightly older age.
• Consuming inflammatory foods like processed meats, refined grains, and sugary drinks is linked to an earlier onset of menstruation.
• Early menstruation is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes in adulthood, making dietary choices a key factor.

A recent study published in the journal *Human Reproduction* reveals a correlation between diet and the onset of puberty in girls. The study, conducted by researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, examined data from over 7,500 girls and found that those with healthier diets rich in vegetables, whole grains, and legumes tended to experience puberty at a later age. Conversely, girls who consumed more inflammatory foods, such as processed meats and sugary drinks, were more likely to begin menstruating earlier. This research highlights the potential impact of dietary choices on the timing of puberty and subsequent long-term health risks.

• What: A study reveals that girls who consume healthier diets are more likely to experience puberty at a later age, while those who consume more inflammatory foods tend to start menstruating earlier.
• Who: The study involved researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, led by Professor Holly Harris, and included over 7,500 girls aged 9 to 14 from the Growing Up Today Study (GUTS).
• When: The data was collected in two waves, from 1996 to 2001 and 2004 to 2008. The study was published in the journal *Human Reproduction* on Tuesday.
• Where: The study was conducted in the United States, drawing data from participants enrolled in the Growing Up Today Study (GUTS).

The study underscores the significant impact of dietary choices on the timing of puberty in girls, independent of BMI. This finding challenges previous assumptions that obesity is the primary driver of early menstruation. By identifying specific dietary patterns associated with earlier or later puberty, the research provides valuable insights for public health interventions and parental guidance. The link between early menarche and increased risk of chronic diseases such as breast cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes highlights the long-term health implications of childhood dietary habits. The study also suggests that environmental factors, such as exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, may play a role in the onset of puberty, warranting further investigation.

"I think our findings highlight the need for all children and adolescents to have access to healthy meal options, and the importance of school-based breakfasts and lunches being based on evidence-based guidelines."

"Emphasis should be on the major food groups and include a variety of foods within each group. Your meals should include a rainbow of fruits and vegetables; at least half of your grains are whole grains; lean proteins (meat, fish, poultry, eggs, beans and nuts) and low-fat dairy or dairy alternatives."

"We observed that these two dietary patterns were associated with age at menarche (the first menstrual cycle), indicating that a healthier diet was linked to menstrual periods starting at an older age."

The study provides compelling evidence that dietary habits during childhood and adolescence can significantly influence the timing of puberty in girls. Prioritizing nutrient-rich diets and minimizing inflammatory foods may delay the onset of menstruation, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases later in life. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms and environmental factors involved in early puberty, but these findings underscore the importance of promoting healthy eating habits and providing access to nutritious meals for all children and adolescents. While genetics, environmental toxins, physical activity and socioeconomic status, among other factors, also play roles. Parents can support their children’s overall health and well-being through nutrition. More studies with more diverse populations will be helpful.