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How does anorexia nervosa lead to amenorrhea and pubertal delay/arrest?

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Final answer:

Anorexia nervosa can lead to amenorrhea and pubertal delay/arrest due to excessive weight loss and malnutrition. The body goes into a state of starvation, shutting down non-essential functions to conserve energy.

Step-by-step explanation:

Anorexia nervosa can lead to amenorrhea (cessation of menses) and pubertal delay/arrest due to the excessive weight loss and malnutrition that result from food restriction. When a person with anorexia nervosa consistently eats very little and becomes extremely thin, their body goes into a state of starvation. In order to conserve energy, the body shuts down non-essential functions, such as the menstrual cycle and the development of secondary sexual characteristics.

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