Understanding Eating Disorders: A Conversation with Dr Jennifer Gaudiani
No patient should ever have to advocate to be treated with compassion, love, honor, respect and validation.
Ever wondered how eating disorders impact the body beyond what meets the eye? In this episode of IMPOWERED: ED & MH Recovery, host Imogen Barnes sits down with Dr Jennifer Gaudiani, a leading expert in the medical treatment of eating disorders and founder of the Gaudiani Clinic. Dr Gaudiani, also known as Dr G, has dedicated her career to supporting adolescents and adults who struggle with their relationship with food and body image.
She’s also the author of 'SICK ENOUGH', a comprehensive guide that demystifies the medical complications associated with eating disorders. Dr G shares her personal journey with an eating disorder, shedding light on how these conditions can manifest in various ways and why every individual’s experience is valid. The discussion touches on the often-overlooked medical complications that come with eating disorders and highlights the shortcomings in the current treatment system.
Dr G also breaks down why anorexia is anorexia, regardless of physical appearance, and explains the body's biological response to perceived famine. The episode takes a deep dive into societal beauty standards and their detrimental effects on body image. Dr G emphasizes the importance of advocating for the treatment you deserve and challenges listeners to rethink what it means to be 'sick enough'.
This conversation is not just for those struggling with eating disorders but also for families, friends, and healthcare providers looking to understand and support their loved ones better. With her wealth of knowledge and compassionate approach, Dr G offers practical advice on challenging the eating disorder voice and dealing with the associated shame. She underscores the importance of community and support in the recovery journey, leaving listeners with a sense of hope and empowerment.
Tune in for an enlightening discussion that could change how you view eating disorders and recovery.