S1E6: Anorexia Nervosa

In episode 6, Ivory and Joan discuss their experience of re-recording an episode on anorexia nervosa and how their perspectives have evolved over the past year. They emphasize the importance of sharing personal stories and the value of nuance in understanding eating disorders.

They begin their discussion of anorexia nervosa with exploring the DSM-5 criteria and the limitations of using weight as a diagnostic criterion. The discussion also delves into the concept of restriction and the moralization of food, emphasizing the importance of not labeling foods as "good" or "bad".

The medical implications of restriction and undernutrition are also discussed, including the impact on cardiac health, gastrointestinal function, bone density, hormonal balance, and emotional well-being. The conversation concludes with a focus on recovery and the rediscovery of joy and cultural connection through food.

Tune in to
Episode 6 here!

Episode Takeaways

• Sharing personal stories and experiences can help others feel seen and validated.

• The DSM-5 criteria for anorexia nervosa have evolved to be more inclusive, though it still has a strong emphasis on weight/BMI.

  Stereotypes and weight stigma can lead to under diagnosis and misdiagnosis of eating disorders.

  Labeling foods as "good" or "bad" and embracing a black/white mentality around food and eating behaviors are not helpful and can contribute to disordered eating patterns.

  Restriction and undernutrition can have severe medical implications, affecting cardiac health, gastrointestinal function, bone density, hormonal balance, and emotional well-being.

  Recovery from an eating disorder involves reconnecting with joy and cultural connection through food.

Additional Notes

• We mention this idea of "food as medicine" as part of needing to nutritional rehabilitate as part of anorexia nervosa treatment and recovery. However, we would like to clarify that we do not believe that one can heal all conditions by what one eats/their diet.