Blog Post Title One
Signs of Disordered Eating in Mothers Over 30
Motherhood brings immense joy — but also intense stress, shifting identities, and enormous pressure to "bounce back" physically and emotionally.
For many women, these pressures can quietly fuel disordered eating patterns that are easy to overlook — especially when they are disguised as "healthy habits" or "self-care.”
It's important to recognize the signs of disordered eating early. I like to think of it as a three stage approach:
Awareness (developing an awareness of something being present)
Acceptance (accepting that something is a problem and you want to change)
Action (addressing the problem head on)
These steps can lead to healing — and a return to a fuller, more peaceful relationship with food and body.
Here are some signs to watch for:
1. Preoccupation with Food, Weight, or Body Image
If thoughts about what you should or shouldn't eat, how much you weigh, or how your body looks are taking up significant mental space, it may signal more than just a casual interest in wellness.
Mothers often feel added pressure to appear a certain way — but when self-worth becomes tied closely to appearance, it's a red flag.
2. Rigid Food Rules
Many women develop strict rules after 30, such as:
"I can't eat after 7 PM."
"Carbs are bad."
"I have to work out to 'earn' my meals."
While having preferences is normal, rigid rules that cause guilt or anxiety when broken suggest an unhealthy relationship with food.
3. Guilt or Shame After Eating
If meals often end with feelings of guilt, regret, or promises to "be better tomorrow," that's a signal worth listening to.
Food is meant to nourish, not punish.
4. Using Exercise as Punishment
Exercise should be about feeling good — but for some mothers, it becomes a way to "make up for" eating or to control weight.
When physical activity is consistently tied to feelings of shame or obligation, it can reinforce disordered patterns.
5. Emotional Eating or Restriction During Stressful Times
Motherhood brings plenty of emotional ups and downs.
Some mothers find themselves turning to food for comfort — or withdrawing from food entirely during hard times.
While occasional shifts are normal, patterns of emotional eating or chronic restriction can point to deeper struggles.
6. Changes in Eating Habits That Are Kept Secret
Eating differently in private compared to with others — whether eating much more or much less — often signals shame or internalized judgment around food.
If you're hiding certain behaviors from family or friends, it's worth exploring why.
At Chestnut Hill Therapy, I specialize in working with women in Massachusetts and New Hampshire who are navigating eating concerns, motherhood, and life transitions.
You don't have to struggle alone. Healing is possible — and you are worthy of a peaceful relationship with food and your body at every stage of motherhood.
Ready to take the first step?
Contact me today to schedule a free consultation.
