What You Need to Know About Midlife Eating Disorders

30, flirty, and thriving. But what about 40? What about 50? You’re still thriving, but maybe you’ve started experiencing menopause symptoms, or perhaps you’re noticing a few more aches and pains than you used to. These transitional changes can create a perfect storm for mental and physical health challenges—including the rise of eating disorders.

In fact, research shows that eating disorders are increasingly affecting women in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. So, why does this happen, and what can you do to support your body and mind during this vulnerable time?

Hormonal Changes Can Lead to Body Blues

As early as your mid-30s, your ovaries produce less and less estrogen and progesterone. The pituitary gland tries to compensate, producing more follicle-stimulating hormone. These aren’t the only hormones that go through change: cortisol levels can rise, and insulin sensitivity can decline, making it harder to regulate your blood sugar.

Women’s fitness expert Melody D. explains that all of these hormonal changes impact your metabolic health. “Muscle mass decreases, lowering resting metabolic rate (RMR) and makes weight gain more likely without increased caloric intake.”

What’s more, Melody explains that there’s a change in your fat distribution. What used to go to your hips and thighs (as subcutaneous fat), now goes more towards your abdomen (as visceral fat).

The result? You may start to look and feel different.

Different is not necessarily a bad thing. Many women feel more ‘themselves’ than ever once they hit their midlife. But for a select portion of women, these hormonal changes can lead to ‘body blues,’ i.e., increasingly negative body image. “These physical changes, combined with cultural pressures and aging-related stigma, can lead to body image challenges, including frustration, low self-esteem, or a diminished sense of control over one’s body,” says Melody.

Why Eating Disorders Emerge in Midlife

While eating disorders are still most prevalent among adolescent women, women over 40 are increasingly at risk. Between 2 and 7.7% of women over 40 meet the diagnostic criteria for an eating disorder.

That may seem like a relatively low portion of the population; however, according to the National Eating Disorders Association, the figure is much higher, with 13% of women 50 years and older experiencing at least one symptom of an eating disorder. 

You’re Not Alone

If this is resonating with you, you’re not alone. One 2019 study found that a whopping 73% of women in this age group report being unhappy with their weight—which is considered a risk factor for an eating disorder. Something that seems as positive as cutting out a few sugary snacks can develop into more compulsive behaviors and thought patterns that can impact your mental and physical well-being. 

 “As someone who once struggled with body image, fluctuating weight, and a complicated relationship with food in early adulthood, becoming a parent shifted my perspective,” Melody shares.

If you’re struggling with your relationship with food, it’s a good idea to speak to someone—a family member, friend, therapist, or healthcare provider. 

Healthy Habits Can Help You Feel Your Best At Any Age

It’s not nice to suddenly notice your body isn’t looking or behaving the way it used to. So what can you do about it? We asked Melody.

1. Practice healthy habits

“Healthy habits are essential for maintaining a positive body image and outlook because they foster physical and mental well-being. Going for regular workouts, eating nutritious foods, and prioritizing rest all improve physical health and boost mood and resilience by reducing stress and promoting self-esteem,” says Melody.

2. Shift your perspective from “What does my body look like?” to “What can my body do?”

It’s helpful to try and make an intentional effort to shift the focus off your appearance. Testing yourself with hard workouts can help with this. For example, set the goal of doing one pull-up. It’s not an appearance-centric goal, but rather, focused on your body’s functionality. “This,” Melody explains, “reinforces self-acceptance and appreciation.” You’re strong, don’t forget that.

3. Learn more about nutrition and wellness

When Melody struggled with her body image and her relationship with food, it helped her learn more about nutrition (check out obé’s nutrition blogs here). “I studied nutrition and became a health coach, and began to understand how macro and micronutrients build and fuel our incredible bodies,” she says.

“I began to see food as nourishment rather than a source of struggle or moral judgment. Letting go of the binary notions of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ food, which had consumed my teens and 20s, was liberating.”

“It helped me break free from negative food talk. Instead, I found joy and wonder in the role food plays as the ultimate source of energy, vitality, and life itself.”

obé has a “Nutrition Fundamentals” Course on the app that provides a comprehensive approach to understanding and optimizing nutrition for wellness and longevity. Learn more below.

Nutrition Fundamentals on obé

If you want to deepen your understanding of nutrition and wellness, consider taking the Nutrition Fundamentals Course on obé.

Melody explains what’s included: “The course covers essential topics such as mastering the basics of nutrition, debunking calorie myths, and identifying top foods that support hormone health.”

So who’s it for? “This course is ideal for women looking to cultivate a proactive, balanced, and sustainable relationship with food, empowering them with knowledge and practical tools for long-term well-being.”

Want to learn more about body image? Check out these popular blogs: How to Practice Body Love If You Don’t Buy into Body Positivity and 3 Ways Movement Improves Body Image for Women

Midlife may bring challenges, but it’s also an opportunity to reconnect with your body in a deeper, more meaningful way. As Melody says, “By nurturing a sense of strength, energy, and control, healthy habits empower individuals to resist unrealistic beauty standards and build a sustainable, positive relationship with their bodies.” With the right tools, support, and mindset, you can navigate this transition with confidence and grace.