In today’s episode, we’re diving into a subject we haven’t yet explored on this podcast: eating disorders. This is an issue that affects millions of people worldwide, including many children and adolescents. For some, it’s a deeply personal battle that often goes unnoticed by those around them. Research even suggests that certain groups, like girls with ADHD, might be at greater risk of developing eating disorders. 

In today’s conversation, we’re joined by Robyn Goldberg, author of The Eating Disorder Trap. Robyn is here to shed light on this complex mental health issue and help debunk some common misconceptions. Many people think eating disorders are solely about food, but as we’ll discuss, they’re far more intricate—often tied to deeper emotional and psychological concerns.

Robyn covers red flags that parents and caregivers should be aware of and discusses the role that shame, depression, and anxiety play in these struggles. She also touches on the impact of diet culture and how it affects us all. Robyn offers practical advice for parents navigating this journey and even shares details about her free online course for caregivers.

[1:58] - The number of people who struggle with an eating disorder is startling.

[3:23] - Eating disorders are not about the food. It is a complex mental health concern.

[4:28] - Robyn shares common misconceptions, starting with the stereotyped appearance of someone with an eating disorder.

[5:41] - The most common eating disorder that is rarely talked about is binge eating. Robyn also discusses other disorders, like ARFID.

[7:47] - Robyn wrote a book that was released right before Covid lockdowns and she describes how it is written for everyone.

[9:57] - Doctors and clinicians can be very overwhelming to those struggling with answering questions about their eating disorders.

[12:18] - There has been a significant rise in mental health problems, including eating disorders, since the pandemic.

[15:03] - Robyn lists some of the frequently seen impacts on physical health that eating disorders have.

[17:01] - Things get complicated and confusing when parents have not resolved their own issues with eating.

[19:12] - Robyn describes some red flags that could be signs of an eating disorder.

[21:05] - Depression and anxiety can be heightened when malnourished.

[22:25] - Research shows that girls with ADHD are at greater risk for eating disorders.

[24:40] - There is a free online course that Robyn offers for caregivers who are helping someone with an eating disorder.

[27:52] - Oftentimes, there is a lot of shame around eating disorders.

[29:44] - What does treatment typically look like? It depends on the type of eating disorder, but Robyn explains what parents should expect.

[33:03] - There are things that parents and families can do to help support their child or teen.

[34:04] - No one is immune to diet culture. It is everywhere and all-consuming.

Robyn L. Goldberg, RDN, CEDS-C is a registered dietitian nutritionist, certified eating disorder specialist and consultant (CEDS-C), certified intuitive eating counselor and a Health at Every Size® (HAES) clinician. 

Robyn began her career at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles as the in-patient dietitian in the Department of Cardiology. For the last 26 years, she has had a private practice in Beverly Hills, CA, where she specializes in medical conditions, eating disorders, disordered eating, dual diagnosis, pre-pregnancy nutrition and women seeking fertility treatment.

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The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.