<![CDATA[Background: Appetite changes during the menstrual cycle may be influenced by hormonal and metabolic fluctuations, potentially differing between women with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Objectives: To examine the association between appetite fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle and T2DM risk in reproductive-aged women. Methods: This case-control study included reproductive-aged women divided into T2DM and non-diabetic groups. Appetite changes were assessed across different menstrual phases (pre-menstrual, menstrual, and follicular), while dietary intake was analyzed using the Semi Quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire (SQ-FFQ). Statistical analysis was performed using logistic regression test and independent t-test. Results: During the premenstrual phase, women with T2DM experienced more increased appetite compared to the non-diabetic group (OR=1.53; 95% CI: 0.808–11.842; p-value=0.099). During the menstrual phase, increased appetite was more common in the non-diabetic group, while the diabetic group showed a more stable appetite response (OR=0.15; 95% CI: 0.028–0.772; p-value=0.029). In addition, women with T2DM had higher energy, protein, and fat intake compared to the non-diabetic group. Conclusions: Appetite regulation throughout the menstrual cycle differs between women with and without T2DM, suggesting potential metabolic dysregulation in diabetic individuals. Differences in dietary intake may also contribute to metabolic risk. Further research is needed to explore these relationships and develop appropriate nutritional interventions for women at risk of T2DM.]]>
