Risk of Eating Disorders Especially High in Middle-Aged Women, New Study Finds

Researchers find body dissatisfaction can lead to eating disorders at any age, but especially in women during perimenopause and early post-menopause.

Eating disorders aren't just a danger to teenagers. Researchers say body dissatisfaction can lead to anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating at any age. However, their new study finds that the risk is especially high for women during perimenopause and early postmenopause, typically in their 40s and 50s.

The medical director of the North American Menopause Society explains that this study shows, similar to studies in young adults, dissatisfaction with body image remains a core feature of eating disorder pathology in midlife women. She adds that fear of gaining weight and fear of losing control over eating habits are common symptoms of eating disorders in midlife.

The researchers suggest that these findings highlight the need for more targeted treatments to help women with body image issues during middle age.