Which health issue could arise from Amanda's restricting her food intake?

When females like Amanda restrict their food intake significantly, it can lead to serious health issues such as oligomenorrhea (infrequent menstrual periods) and amenorrhea (the absence of menstrual periods). This occurs due to the body's response to insufficient energy availability, which can disrupt hormonal balance. The decrease in body fat and overall energy can signal the body to conserve energy and prioritize essential functions, such as metabolic processes over reproductive functions, leading to menstrual irregularities.

This condition is particularly important because regular menstrual cycles are often a sign of hormonal health. Restricted caloric intake can cause the body to produce lower levels of estrogen, which is vital for maintaining menstrual health. The repercussions go beyond reproductive health; they can affect bone density and increase the risk of osteoporosis.

In contrast, other options like increased energy levels, improved social interactions, or heightened athletic performance, would typically not result from food restriction and can be misleading. Restriction generally leads to feelings of fatigue, decreased performance, and potential social withdrawal due to energy depletion and mood changes. Understanding these impacts underlines the importance of balanced nutrition for overall health and well-being.