Understanding the Link Between Perimenopause and Eating Disorders: A Growing Concern for Midlife Women
Perimenopause is a significant transition time in the life of a woman, marked by endocrine changes, emotional changes, and other physiological changes. Though hot flashes and mood swings are the buzzwords, one increasingly concerning issue remains underreported: the association of perimenopause with eating disorders.
Here in this blog, we talk about how perimenopause impacts eating habits, what UK women must know, and how Dr. Sandar Hlaing, a trustworthy women’s health clinician, offers holistic help to get through this challenging phase of life.
Can Perimenopause Cause Eating Disorders?
What do most midlife women wonder about, “How does menopause affect eating?” or “Do hormonal changes lead to disordered eating?”
The answer is yes — hormonal fluctuations, in the form of declines in estrogen, can disrupt appetite regulation, emotional management, and self-image. This can be expressed as:
- Binge eating episodes
- Restrictive eating habits
- Preoccupation with food or weight
- Relapse of past eating disorders
These issues are not strictly psychological. Biological fluctuations in perimenopause enhance women’s susceptibility to disordered eating, but often go unnoticed because youth attention falls on younger generations.
Mental Well-being, Body Image & Hormones: A Triple Whammy
Questions like “perimenopause mental health and eating” and “body image issues at menopause” reflect the manner in which UK women are seeking answers.
Dr. Sandar also emphasises the connection between mood, eating habits, and hormones. Depression, low self-esteem, and anxiety — common during perimenopause — would logically exacerbate disordered eating. And changes in body shape or weight distribution can strengthen body dissatisfaction, which is an established trigger for eating disorders.
Signs to Watch For During Perimenopause
If you’re wondering “Is binge eating perimenopause normal?”, “What are eating disorder symptoms in middle-aged women?” — here are some red flags:
- More preoccupation with food, calories, or weight
- Avoiding meals or social dining events
- Bingeing on a frequent basis or as an emotional coping
- Guilt or shame after eating
- Physical symptoms like gastrointestinal distress, lethargy, or amenorrhea
If you, or someone you care about, is experiencing these, getting help is crucial.
Support for Women Aged Over 40
Education regarding “eating disorder treatment” and “midlife eating disorder support groups” is increasing. Nevertheless, there is minimal access to individualised, midlife-care.
Dr. Sandar Hlaing offers a supportive, secure environment for women who are experiencing health changes, including:
- Hormone testing and balancing
- Menopause and perimenopause care
- Emotional and mental health counseling
- Nutrition and lifestyle counseling
Her integrated method considers your mind, body, and spirit health tailored to your individual symptoms and goals.
Read Related Blogs:
- Perimenopause vs Menopause: What’s the Difference and When to Get Help?
- Navigating Menopause and Beyond: Expert Care and Innovative Treatments
Book a Consultation
Having trouble handling change in eating through perimenopause? Schedule a consultation today with Dr. Sandar for discreet, expert treatment.
Conclusion
Perimenopause is more than a stage — it’s an assertive stage of life that calls for notice, concern, and personalised care. Female midlife eating disorders are real, valid, and manageable.
If you’re a UK resident and require specialist help, Dr. Sandar Hlaing is present to facilitate your journey with compassion, clinical expertise, and personalised care.
