The effect of nutrition and exercise severity and intensity on PMS in young women

Eral, E. (2025). The Effect of Nutrition and Exercise Severity and Intensity on PMS in Young Women. Master's Thesis, Biruni University Graduate School of Education, Istanbul. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common condition that negatively affects the quality of life in women of childbearing age. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between exercise intensity, emotional eating behavior, and PMS symptoms in women with different physical activity levels. The study was conducted with a total of 226 female participants aged 18-35, and the participants were divided into three groups according to their physical activity levels: those who did not exercise, those who exercised regularly, and professional athletes. Data collection tools such as the Premenstrual Syndrome Scale (PMSS), Emotional Eating Scale (EES), and food consumption records were used in the study, and body mass index was assessed with anthropometric measurements. The data were examined with statistical analyses to determine the differences between the groups (P < .05 significance level). According to the results, the prevalence of PMS was found to be 70.4%, and it was determined that women who did not exercise experienced more severe symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and irritability (P < .05). It was observed that professional athletes reported milder PMS symptoms despite intensive training. A significant relationship was found between emotional eating behavior and PMS (P < .01) and it was determined that these scores were higher in individuals who did not exercise. In addition, it was found that professional athletes who exercised regularly had more balanced eating habits, increased vegetable consumption, and decreased fried and packaged food consumption (P < .05). This study revealed the importance of physical activity and eating habits in PMS management. While moderate regular exercise reduced both emotional and physical symptoms, it was also observed that a balanced diet contributed to PMS management by reducing emotional eating behavior based on pleasure. These findings show the importance of integrating exercise and nutrition strategies in the management of PMS symptoms. Keywords: Food Consumption; Emotional Eating; Exercise Intensity; Premenstrual Syndrome; Professional Athletes