Why can anorexia nervosa be so difficult to overcome? This episode explores neuroscience research suggesting that differences in reward learning and habit formation may contribute to the persistence of the illness, offering new insights into how the brain changes throughout recovery.

This episode features an interview with Cynthia Bulik, a leading expert in eating disorder research and treatment. Explore the science behind eating disorders, including genetics, neuroscience, behavior, and emerging research on the gut-brain connection, while examining how these illnesses are far more complex than common misconceptions suggest.

Interested in contributing to eating disorder research? Learn more about the Eating Disorders Genetics Initiative and how to participate here: https://edgi2.org/

This episode explores the neuroscience of bulimia nervosa and how self-control circuits in the brain can become disrupted. Learn why behaviors can feel out of control and how brain-based understanding can support recovery.

This episode explores the Minnesota Starvation Study and how restriction affects the brain and body. Learn how food preoccupation, emotional changes, and eating behaviors can be driven by starvation and why nourishment is key to recovery.

Learn more about the study here: https://psychiatry.duke.edu/blog/starvation-experiment

This episode explores a neuroscience study on brain connectivity in anorexia nervosa based on research by Blair Uniacke and colleagues . Learn how changes in habit circuits and brain networks help explain rigid thinking, repetitive behaviors, and why recovery involves both the body and the brain.

Read more about the study here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30590873/

This episode features an interview with Registered Dietitian and REVV Health founder Marissa Beck, exploring how diet culture, body image, and nutrition messaging impact mental and physical health in teens and young adults. Learn how building a balanced, sustainable relationship with food can support overall well-being, along with practical ways to approach health without rigidity or extremes.

Learn more: https://revvhealth.com

This episode explores how omega-3 fatty acids support brain cell communication and mood regulation. Learn how these essential fats help maintain flexible neuron membranes and support the brain’s emotional and cognitive functions.

This episode explores how blood sugar influences mood, focus, and emotional regulation. Learn how consistent nourishment supports brain function and why stable energy helps the mind and body work together.

This episode explores how perfectionism and control are wired into the brain and why they are closely linked to eating disorders. Learn how fear circuits, error detection systems, and habit pathways reinforce rigid behaviors, and how flexibility can be rebuilt over time.

This episode explores the first steps toward eating disorder recovery and the resources available for support. Learn how connection, professional guidance, and consistent nourishment help retrain the brain and begin the healing process.