Early Periods in Girls: Why are girls getting periods before time? Experts told these 5 surprising reasons

News India Live, Digital Desk: According to health experts, starting menstruation at an early age has a deep impact not only on physical but also mental health. There are many factors behind this, from changed lifestyle to eating habits. 1. Food habits and hormonal imbalance (Adulterated Food) Nowadays, growth hormones and chemicals are used in most of the food items available in the market, especially dairy and poultry products. Milk and chicken: Injections like ‘Oxytocin’ are given to cows to produce more milk and to make chickens grow faster. When girls consume these products, these external hormones prematurely increase the levels of estrogen in their bodies.2. Obesity and High BMI (Obesity & Junk Food) Obesity is increasing in children due to lack of physical activity and excessive consumption of junk food (pizza, burgers, packaged snacks). Science: Fat cells of the body produce estrogen hormone. When the amount of fat in the body increases, the brain gets a signal that the body is ready for reproduction, due to which periods start early.3. Effect of ‘Screen Time’ and MelatoninIncreased use of digital devices (mobiles, tablets) is also a hidden reason. Lack of sleep: Watching screens till late night reduces the level of ‘melatonin’ hormone in the body. Melatonin not only regulates sleep, but it also helps prevent premature puberty. Due to its deficiency the hormonal cycle gets disturbed.4. Plastics and Toxins (Endocrine Disruptors)Chemicals used in plastic bottles and tiffins like BPA (Bisphenol A) and Phthalates act as ‘endocrine disruptors’. These chemicals mimic the body’s natural hormones and confuse the system, which speeds up physical development.5. Stress and family environment: According to psychological research, mental stress also affects puberty. A disturbed home environment or excessive mental pressure in childhood activates the body’s ‘Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Adrenal’ (HPA) axis, which can lead to premature maturity. Important tips for parents: Physical activity: Motivate children to play outdoor games for at least 1 hour daily. Pure diet: Give as much organic and homemade fresh food as possible. Avoid packaged and processed foods. Reduce use of plastic: Use glass or steel bottles for water. Advice: If signs of puberty (such as breast development) are seen under the age of 8 years, immediately contact a pediatric endocrinologist.