The Silent Struggle: Menopause and Eating Disorders – How Kays Medical Is Supporting Women’s Health

For Lulu Banham, it began with competitive conversations at the school gates—mothers comparing diets, fitness routines, and waistlines. What started as casual comparison spiraled into a hidden battle with disordered eating. Her story is not unique. Across the UK, a growing number of women in midlife are silently struggling with eating disorders triggered or worsened by the menopause transition.

Why Is This Happening?

Menopause brings profound physical, emotional, and psychological changes. Hormonal shifts—particularly in oestradiol and progesterone—can affect mood, appetite, and body image. Combined with societal pressures to maintain a youthful appearance, many women find themselves battling body dissatisfaction and unhealthy eating habits.

Recent research shows that nearly 8% of women aged 40 and above meet the criteria for an eating disorder. These include binge eating, restrictive dieting, and emotional eating—often exacerbated by stress, lifestyle changes, and the physical effects of menopause such as weight gain and fatigue.

The Impact on Health

Disordered eating during menopause can lead to:

• Weakened bones and increased risk of osteoporosis
• Muscle loss and reduced mobility
• Heart problems and blood pressure issues
• Immune system suppression
• Mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression

Despite these risks, many women suffer in silence—either unaware that their symptoms are part of a larger issue or too ashamed to seek help.

How Kays Medical Is Supporting Women

At Kays Medical, we believe that menopause should be met with support, understanding, and proactive care. That’s why our Occupational Health Services and Wellness Days are designed to help women navigate this life stage with confidence and compassion.

Our Services Include:

• Menopause Health Screenings
  Tailored assessments to monitor physical and emotional wellbeing, including weight, bone density, and cardiovascular health.
• Mental Health Support
  Access to confidential counselling and psychological services to address body image concerns, anxiety, and disordered eating.
• Nutrition and Lifestyle Advice
  Expert guidance from occupational health nurses and wellness coaches to promote healthy eating habits and sustainable lifestyle changes.
• Workplace Wellness Days
  Educational sessions, health checks, and interactive workshops focused on menopause awareness, self-care, and resilience.
• Manager Training
  Helping employers understand how to support menopausal employees with empathy and practical adjustments.

Breaking the Silence

Lulu Banham’s courage in sharing her story is helping to break the stigma around midlife eating disorders. At Kays Medical, we’re committed to continuing that conversation – creating safe spaces for women to seek help, share experiences, and thrive during menopause.

If you or your organisation would like to learn more about our menopause support services, please contact our Occupational Health team.