Catherine Matthews

Nutritionist

While 50 may be the new 40, for many women there is a darker side to this motivational aspiration.

The older contingent of society tends to be credited with having sorted through all of their body issues, but an increasing number of women in their 50’s and 60’s are struggling with eating disorders such as bulimia and anorexia.

In recent years there’s been a vast growth in the world of media and celebrity and this has stirred up a cultural pressure throughout all the age groups and both genders. Glamorous images of celebs like Kylie Minogue and Demi Moore looking like youthful 25 year olds heaps pressure on women in their 40’s, 50’s and 60’s to look slim, wrinkle-free and years younger.

Ursula Philpot, a dietitian at the Yorkshire Centre for Eating Disorders said older women now make up at least 10% of eating disorder patients. The number of men being treated for eating disorders is also on the rise, she added.

Women and men who are used to being in control of everything, including their body shape seem to find it particularly difficult to succumb to the effects of middle age. It’s important to maintain a healthy body shape and to eat a balanced diet no matter what your age. As we get older we will inevitably lose a little muscle tone and gain a few pounds, but we must react sensibly to these changes. If you are overweight, you should aim to lose no more than 1-2 lbs per week. This steady rate of loss can be achieved by following healthy diet plans and getting regular exercise.

Obsessively counting calories and dieting shouldn’t overtake anyone’s life and if it starts to in mid life, it can indicate that there is something else going on. Perhaps there are lifestyle changes or family problems that the person is struggling with. It’s easy to see how stresses and strains can escalate into issues with food control. There is always someone to talk to if you are finding it difficult to cope with any life episodes. Whether you want to chat to a friend, GP or a counsellor, there are people available to listen and support you in confidence.

If you are concerned that you or someone you know is suffering from an eating disorder, the symptoms below are warning signs:

* Skipping meals.

* Hiding food (in a napkin, under a plate, etc.) to avoid eating it.

* Lying about having eaten in an attempt to avoid a meal or snack.

* Avoiding social events which require eating or involve food.

* Eating only a limited number or type of food.

* Exercising excessively, particularly after or “to make up for” eating.

* Dramatically losing weight.

* Showing excessive interest in weight, body image and fasting.

* Displaying low energy levels.

* Frequently falling ill.

* Showing low or no sex drive.

For more information you can visit this website:

http://www.b-eat.co.uk/Home

To contact Catherine, please email nutritionist.matthews@gmail.com