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Eating Disorders Age Progression Chart

How Eating Disorders May Affect People Over the Years

Age Range Manifestation Impact
0-5 Years Picky eating habits, potential food aversions. Limited impact on physical health; normal development milestones.
6-12 Years Increased focus on body image, potential dieting behaviors. Potential impact on self-esteem, body dissatisfaction.
13-18 Years Onset of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder. Impaired physical health, potential academic challenges, social withdrawal.
19-30 Years Continued struggle with established eating disorders, potential development of avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). Interference with career and relationship development.
31-50 Years Chronicity of existing disorders, potential onset of ARFID or other feeding and eating disorders. Health complications, potential impact on family dynamics.
51-65 Years Continued struggle or potential relapse, exacerbated by age-related concerns. Health deterioration, increased risk of medical complications.
66+ Years Persistent struggle with eating disorders, potential impact on overall well-being. Compromised quality of life, potential exacerbation of age-related health challenges.

It's crucial to note that the impact and manifestation of eating disorders can vary widely among individuals, and some may not experience eating disorders during specific age ranges. Seeking professional help can significantly mitigate the effects of eating disorders at any stage of life.