The Starved Brain: Eating Disorders, Anxiety and Recovery

In this episode, I’m joined by dietitian Victoria Schonwald to explore the link between eating disorders, malnutrition and brain function. We discuss why restrictive eating doesn’t just affect the body—it changes the brain. And why, for many people, recovery isn’t about thinking differently first, but eating differently. We cover: How malnutrition affects mood, anxiety and thinking patterns Why therapy alone can fall short without adequate nutrition The rise of disordered eating in midlife women The unintended consequences of weight loss injections Orthorexia and the growing fear of “unhealthy” food Why recovery is possible at any age This is a practical, compassionate conversation about food, fear, and why the brain needs fuel to heal.