

Recovery Talk
Amalie Lee (MSc, GMBPsS)
Welcome to Recovery Talk, a podcast about the science and psychology of eating disorders and disordered eating. I’m Amalie, bringing clinical, academic, and lived experience to help you understand the psychology and science of recovery. No fluff, no BS, just real talk about topics like restriction, binge eating, body image healing, exercise, and anorexia- and bulimia recovery. Join me for practical, science-backed insights and support on your journey. (Disclaimer: not medical advice or a substitute for treatment.)
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 21, 2025 • 39min
Body Checking: Why It Happens & How To Stop
In this episode, we're exploring body checking: what it is, why it happens, and how to actually break free from the cycle with some practical (and slightly unconventional!) strategies. Whether you're mirror checking, analysing pictures, lifting up your shirt, touching your stomach or comparing your body to others, this episode is for you.We’ll explore:- The psychology behind body checking- Conscious versus automated (habitual) body checking- Why letting go feel can feel so hard and scary- The subtle and not-so-subtle ways it shows up- Body comparison- My top practical strategies to reduce body checking ("delay, replace, complicate, interrupt")For coaching-related inquiries, head to letsrecover.co.uk.

Oct 7, 2025 • 48min
Why Fats & Carbs Keep You Full (& Low-Calorie, High-Volume Filler Foods Don’t)
Ever wondered why you can eat a giant of low-calorie, high-protein, high-fibre foods and still feel unsatisfied? In this episode, we break down how fats and carbohydrates help your body feel truly full - not just physically, but mentally too. We talk about the difference between physical fullness and real satiety, and why eating enough energy-dense foods is so important in recovery. If you’ve been stuck in the cycle of “filler foods” but still feeling hungry, this one’s for you!Topics we cover in this episode:Physical fullness VS true satietyHow carbs and fats regulate physical and mental hungerProtein myths and factsMental hunger, dopamine & hedonic eating (and why they are not 'bad')Bingeing, and how volume eating can backfireBlood sugar regulation and reactive hypoglycaemiaHow high-fibre diets in (early) recovery can cause gut issuesRewiring, and the importance of challenging disordered rules and fearsFor coaching-related inquiries, head to letsrecover.co.uk.

Jan 28, 2025 • 22min
Retrying Recovery After Past Failed Attempts/Relapses
Delve into the challenges of re-entering recovery after setbacks. Discover the importance of self-awareness and commitment in overcoming past relapses. Personal stories illuminate common misconceptions, like fears surrounding weight gain. Learn about key factors for success, such as the power of support, consistency, and grasping the nuances of your recovery journey. It's an honest exploration of perseverance and hope.

Jan 14, 2025 • 44min
OCD & Eating Disorders
In this episode I talk about OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), and how it relates to eating disorders. I discuss what OCD is, OCD vs OCPD, less known manifestations including 'pure O', OCD-ED and whether or not an eating disorder can be viewed as a form of OCD.
Link to article mentioned: 'Ethical Orthorexia', Veganism & Moral Rigidity In Eating Disorders
Website: letsrecover.co.uk

Dec 31, 2024 • 26min
"Do I Need To Believe In Full Recovery To Recover?"
In this week's episode I discuss whether or not someone has to believe full recovery is possible for them in order to recover, and how the eating disorder will try and latch onto doubt to keep you stuck.
@amalielee | @letsrecover.co.uk | letsrecover.co.uk

Dec 17, 2024 • 40min
Health-Promoting Behaviours VS An Eating Disorder
Is healthy eating always healthy? Explore the blurry line between orthorexia and genuine health promotion. Discover how disordered movement can masquerade as a love for fitness. Delve into personal stories that illustrate the profound effects of eating disorders on well-being. Learn about the essential aspects of recovery, including the necessity of weight gain and calorie-rich foods for holistic health and happiness. It's a journey towards embracing a balanced relationship with food and movement.

Dec 3, 2024 • 31min
How Eating Disorders Hijack Cravings
The discussion dives into the complex world of cravings during recovery from restrictive eating disorders. It emphasizes how disordered thoughts can misinterpret genuine needs, especially around carbohydrates and protein cravings. Misconceptions about recovery are challenged, advocating for a balanced approach that transcends food fixation. Listeners are encouraged to embrace self-acceptance and focus on a fulfilling life beyond just food and body image, promoting overall well-being and meaningful experiences.

Oct 29, 2024 • 58min
All In
In this episode I discuss all-in recovery, or 'going all in'; what it means, who it is (and isn't) for, common criticisms, and potential perks and pitfalls with this method of recovery.
letsrecover.co.uk | @letsrecover.co.uk | @amalielee

Oct 22, 2024 • 28min
Planning/Fantasising About Recovery (But Not Doing Anything)
In this week's episode I discuss the trap of maladaptive daydreaming and endlessly strategising/planning your future recovery, and how this can be a way of avoiding action.
1:1 coaching application form | letsrecover.co.uk
@letsrecover.co.uk | @amalielee

Oct 9, 2024 • 40min
Starvation Mode
Discover the intriguing concept of starvation mode and its surprising effects on both body and mind. Dive into the reasons why it happens and how to recognize its symptoms. Uncover common myths surrounding this state and learn practical strategies for recovery through increased energy intake. The exploration of the balance between physical health and psychological well-being offers valuable insights for anyone seeking to overcome this challenge.