Every life-sustaining system of the body can be affected. Described below are some of the effects on various bodily structures and functions. Hormonal changes Irregular menses or absence of menses is a warning sign of serious hormonal disturbance. In the absence of hormonal stimulation, the ovaries fail to produce an egg and do not secrete estrogen and progesterone. Development of secondary sex characteristics and normal growth is impeded.
Fertility potential is reduced.
During adolescence and early adulthood, new bone growth, bone maturation, and achievement of maximum bone density occurs. Normally, a delicate balance is maintained between the breakdown of old bone tissue and the formation of new bone. In malnutrition states and estrogen deficiency states, as in eating disorders, bone demineralization progresses, while new bone formation is inhibited. Thus the matrix of bony tissue becomes very porous and bones are weakened. Strenuous exercise, coupled with low bone mineral density, often result in stress fractures.