Resources & Recommendations for Eating Disorder Recovery

Top Resources for Eating Disorder Recovery: Books, Podcasts, and Dietitians

Even if you’re not quite ready to dive into therapy or get professional support, starting to educate yourself about eating disorders and disordered eating is a great first step. The books and podcasts listed below can offer valuable insights and motivation, and might even inspire you to seek further help when you’re ready. Recovery is a journey, and every small step matters. Some people get information and build ‘recovery momentum’ over a period of time before taking the leap.

As a clinical psychologist specializing in eating disorders, I often recommend these trusted resources to my clients. Whether you’re navigating binge eating, body image challenges, or other disordered eating habits, these books, podcasts, and dietitian recommendations can provide guidance and support.

Recommended Books for Eating Disorder Recovery

1. Overcoming Binge Eating – Christopher G. Fairburn
   Goodreads Link
   This book is invaluable for anyone struggling with disordered eating, not just binge eating. It provides a detailed, research-backed approach to overcoming unhealthy eating patterns and is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their relationship with food.
2. Sick Enough: A Guide to the Medical Complications of Eating Disorders – Jennifer L. Gaudiani
   Goodreads Link
   Gaudiani’s book delves into the often-overlooked medical risks of eating disorders, empowering readers with knowledge to better understand the impact on their health. It’s an excellent resource for anyone wanting to better understand the consequences of disordered eating and the importance of recovery.
3. The Beauty Myth – Naomi Wolf
   Goodreads Link
   Naomi Wolf’s powerful exploration of societal beauty standards and how they fuel unhealthy relationships with food and our bodies. This book is essential for those looking to understand the cultural pressures that contribute to body image issues and disordered eating
4. I Thought It Was Just Me – Brené Brown
   Goodreads Link
   Brené Brown offers a compassionate exploration of shame and vulnerability, which are often at the root of disordered eating. This book can help individuals better understand the emotional factors driving eating disorders and begin to heal from the inside out.
5. Radical Acceptance – Tara Brach
   Goodreads Link
   Tara Brach’s work helps individuals break free from self-criticism and perfectionism, two common triggers for disordered eating. This book encourages readers to accept themselves fully, a crucial part of the recovery process.
6. The Gifts of Imperfection – Brené Brown
   Goodreads Link
   This book by Brené Brown highlights the importance of embracing imperfection as a path to living authentically. It’s a great companion for anyone working on self-acceptance, which is fundamental to healing from disordered eating.

Podcasts for Eating Disorder Recovery

1. Maintenance Phase – Aubrey Gordon & Michael Hobbes
   Link to Podcast
   This podcast dives deep into diet culture, debunking myths about health, weight loss, and the wellness industry. It’s a great listen for anyone who feels confused by the conflicting messages about food and health we receive daily.
2. Life Unrestricted – Meret Boxler
   Link to Podcast
   Life Unrestricted focuses on freeing yourself from the restrictive beliefs and behaviors that contribute to disordered eating. It offers inspiring conversations with experts and individuals who have overcome eating disorders, promoting self-compassion and healing.

Dietitian Recommendations

1. Izzy: https://www.nourishavenue.co/Nourish Avenue
   Izzy specializes in helping people develop a balanced relationship with food and is particularly skilled in supporting clients with eating disorders.
2. Jasmine: https://www.theunordinarydietitian.com/The Unordinary Dietitian
   Jasmine offers compassionate and tailored support for those with eating disorders and disordered eating patterns.
3. Kirby: Body Peace Dietetics | Eating Disorder Recovery & Dietetic Counselling
   Kirby provides affirming and trauma informed care for people with eating disorders with a focus on inclusivity and deeper self-understanding.

For more options, you can also check out the Butterfly Foundation’s search tool: https://events.butterfly.org.au/Portal/ReferralSearch/TreatmentServicesTreatment Services.

FYI it’s really important to vibe with your health professionals, and dietitians are no exception! Just because I’m recommending the dietitians above does not mean that they are the right ones for you. Always do your own research and makes sure you feel really good talking with whoever you choose, because you will be telling them your deepest and darkest food related experiences!

These resources—whether books, podcasts, or dietitian recommendations—are wonderful tools for anyone looking to educate themselves or enhance their recovery journey. They offer valuable insights that can support you, no matter where you are on your path. Take one step at a time, and remember that recovery is a journey worth every effort. If you’re ready to start treatment for eating disorders, get in touch today!