In this insightful episode of "Plateful Parenting," hosts Christine Santucci and Chanel Kenner, RD, sit down with Dr. Jacqueline Shiels, clinical psychologist and eating disorder specialist, to discuss what parents need to know about eating disorder treatment for teens and adolescents. Drawing on her vast experience that has encompassed residential treatment and outpatient pediatric care, Dr. Shiels shares the emotional and logistical challenges families face when their child is diagnosed with an eating disorder—and how to navigate them with clarity and confidence.

You'll learn: ✅ What to expect from eating disorder treatment for kids and teens ✅ How parents can effectively support the recovery process ✅ The differences in treatment approaches for kids vs. adults ✅ Red flags parents shouldn't ignore—and what to do first if you're concerned ✅ The role of emerging treatment trends and integrative care in recovery

Whether you suspect a problem or are already navigating treatment, this episode offers compassionate, expert-driven guidance for every step of the journey.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Dr. Jacqueline Shiels, Licensed Clinical Psychologist – Learn more about Dr. Shiels' work and therapy services.

• F.E.A.S.T. (Families Empowered and Supporting Treatment of Eating Disorders)

• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)

• Around the Dinner Table Forum (Parent Support)

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical, nutritional, or mental health advice. Always consult your child's physician or qualified healthcare provider for individual guidance. The views expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Plateful Parenting team.

In this powerful episode of "Plateful Parenting," hosts Christine Santucci and Chanel Kenner, RD, explore the consequences of scaling back Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts in the eating disorder space. What happens when inclusive representation is removed from treatment, media, and advocacy? Who gets left out of the conversation—and care?

Together, they unpack: ✅ The harm of outdated stereotypes and narrow narratives ✅ How lack of DEI leads to underdiagnosis and inequitable treatment ✅ The role of weight stigma, cultural competence, and affirming care ✅ What parents and advocates can do to push for inclusive, accessible support

This episode is a call to action for families, professionals, and communities to keep DEI at the heart of eating disorder treatment and recovery—for every body, everywhere.

• Project HEAL – Access to treatment for underserved populations

• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) – Education, helpline, and advocacy tools

• BE REAL USA – Promoting body diversity and equity in health education

• Health at Every Size (HAES) – A weight-inclusive approach to wellness and care

• Diversify Dietetics – Supporting BIPOC professionals in nutrition

• The Body Is Not An Apology – Radical self-love and body empowerment

• Inclusive Therapists – A directory for culturally responsive mental health care

This episode is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.

📲 Stay Connected: Follow us on Instagram @plateful.parenting.podcast Visit platefulparenting.com for more resources, expert insights, and support for your family.

In this episode of "Plateful Parenting," hosts Christine Santucci and Chanel Kenner, RD, sit down with Katie Maki, a leading advocate in the eating disorder community, to discuss her journey navigating her daughter's early diagnosis of anorexia. Katie shares her experience of identifying early signs, overcoming treatment barriers, and becoming a resource for parents facing similar challenges.

Together, they explore: ✅ Refeeding and extreme hypermetabolism – How to approach high-calorie needs without fear ✅ Managing extreme behaviors in young children – Recognizing red flags and understanding eating disorder-driven actions ✅ The role of diet culture – Unlearning harmful health messages that can fuel disordered eating ✅ Support and advocacy – How parents can find community and push for better access to care

Whether you're in the early stages of your child's recovery or looking for ways to support other families, Katie's wisdom and advocacy provide invaluable guidance. Tune in for hope, encouragement, and practical advice.

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

• F.E.A.S.T. (Families Empowered and Supporting Treatment) – Global support community for parents and caregivers
• Around The Dinner Table Forum – Peer-to-peer support for parents navigating eating disorder treatment
• Health at Every Size (HAES) Community – Weight-inclusive approach to health
• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) – Education, advocacy, and helpline
• Health Equity & Eating Disorder Support – Financial aid and advocacy for equitable eating disorder treatment

⚠ Disclaimer: The content in this episode is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider for treatment decisions.

📲 Stay Connected: Follow us on Instagram @plateful.parenting.podcast and visit platefulparenting.com for more resources. If you found this episode helpful, subscribe and leave a review!

In this episode of Plateful Parenting, renowned therapist and eating disorder expert Carolyn Costin returns for a deeper conversation on life beyond recovery. We explore:

• Navigating insurance and access to care – how to advocate for treatment coverage and alternative resources.
• Bridging the gap after treatment – ensuring long-term recovery, fostering autonomy, and preventing relapse.
• Identity beyond an eating disorder – helping kids and teens rediscover their passions and self-worth.
• Giving back to the community – ways families can support advocacy, mentorship, and awareness efforts.

Carolyn shares practical tools, expert insights, and hope for parents navigating the ongoing journey of recovery.

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

• Carolyn Costin's Website – Therapy, books, and resources.
• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) – Support, advocacy, and treatment options.
• The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness – Free support groups and education.
• Equip Health – Virtual eating disorder treatment for families.
• Project HEAL – Grants and support for individuals facing financial barriers to treatment.
• The Eating Disorders Coalition – Advocacy for improved access to eating disorder care and health equity.

🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!

For more from Carolyn Costin, visit: 🌐 Carolyn Costin's Website 📚 Books & Resources 📢 Advocacy & Support Organizations

Thank you for joining us for this incredible conversation with Carolyn Costin. If this episode resonated with you, please share it with another parent who might need support on this journey. Be sure to follow Plateful Parenting for more expert insights, and join us next time as we continue to navigate eating disorder recovery together.

🎧 Subscribe, rate, and review us wherever you listen to podcasts!

Welcome to "Plateful Parenting," the podcast dedicated to providing resources, support, and community for parents navigating their child's eating disorder recovery. In this episode, co-hosts Chanel Kenner, RD, and Christine Santucci discuss binge eating disorder (BED)—the most common yet often least recognized eating disorder.

Binge eating disorder is more than just overeating; it involves recurrent episodes of consuming large amounts of food with a sense of loss of control, often followed by guilt or shame. Unlike bulimia, BED does not involve compensatory behaviors like purging or excessive exercise. Many parents struggle to recognize BED because it doesn't always align with stereotypical eating disorder presentations, but early intervention is crucial.

In this episode, Chanel and Christine explore:

• The diagnostic criteria for BED and how it differs from other eating disorders
• The emotional and physical consequences of BED, including its impact on mental health
• Treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), nutrition counseling, and medical support
• How parents can create a supportive home environment without reinforcing food shame or diet culture
• When to seek professional help and how to start the conversation with your child

Chanel provides expert insight into the role of a dietitian in supporting clients with BED and shares real-world examples of how shifting away from restrictive food rules can help break the cycle of binge eating. Christine offers practical strategies for parents to foster a safe, structured, and shame-free relationship with food at home.

Join us as we break down misconceptions, offer tangible tools for parents, and reinforce the message that recovery is possible, no matter where your child is in their journey.

• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): A trusted nonprofit providing education, resources, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by eating disorders.
• Equip: A virtual, evidence-based eating disorder treatment program designed for individuals and families.
• Binge Eating Disorder Association (BEDA): Offers education, resources, and support for those affected by BED.
• Health at Every Size (HAES) Community: Focuses on weight-inclusive approaches to health and sustainable wellness.
• The Body Trust Approach: Encourages self-compassion and a non-diet approach to healing from binge eating and disordered eating patterns.

Binge eating disorder is a complex and deeply personal struggle, but healing is possible with the right support, treatment, and compassionate guidance. If you or your child are struggling, reaching out for help is the first step. Remember, food is not the enemy, and your child's worth is never defined by what they eat.

Thank you for joining us on Plateful Parenting. Stay connected with us for more expert insights, practical advice, and supportive conversations. See you next time!

In Episode 21 of "Plateful Parenting," co-hosts Christine Santucci and Chanel Kenner, RD tackle an often-overlooked challenge in eating disorder recovery: the financial barriers that many families face. From the high costs of treatment to the rising price of groceries, financial strain can make recovery feel even more overwhelming for parents trying to support their child.

Christine and Chanel break down the impact of food insecurity, insurance limitations, and treatment costs, while also providing practical strategies for navigating recovery on a budget. They share affordable meal-planning ideas, community resources, and advocacy tips to help parents find the support they need without financial stress standing in the way.

In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ How food insecurity can contribute to eating disorders and complicate recovery ✅ Practical meal-planning strategies for families on a budget ✅ Free and low-cost eating disorder treatment options ✅ How to advocate for insurance coverage and financial assistance

Recovery shouldn't be a privilege—it should be accessible to all. If financial challenges have made your child's recovery more difficult, this episode is for you.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) – Education, support, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by eating disorders.
• Equip – A virtual treatment program offering evidence-based care for individuals and families navigating eating disorder recovery.
• Project HEAL – Provides financial assistance and advocacy for individuals who need eating disorder treatment but face barriers to access.
• Feeding America – A nationwide food bank network supporting families experiencing food insecurity.
• SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) – A government program that helps low-income families afford groceries, ensuring better access to nutrition.

Thank you for joining us for this important conversation about the financial challenges of eating disorder recovery. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the cost of treatment or struggling to afford nutritious meals, remember: you're not alone, and resources are available to help.

Follow us on Instagram @plateful.parenting.podcast for more insights, and visit platefulparenting.com for additional resources.

Recovery is possible, even in the face of financial hardship—let's take it one step at a time.

In Episode 20 of "Plateful Parenting," co-hosts Christine Santucci and Chanel Kenner, RD dive into one of the most challenging aspects of supporting a child with an eating disorder: meal times. What should be a moment of connection often turns into a battle filled with stress, anxiety, and second-guessing.

Christine and Chanel explore why meal times become so emotionally charged, how to shift the focus from food struggles to connection, and practical strategies to make meals less stressful. Chanel shares expert advice on setting realistic expectations, avoiding power struggles, and fostering a more peaceful mealtime routine.

In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ Why meal times can feel overwhelming and emotionally charged ✅ Practical strategies to create structure and reduce stress at meals ✅ How to handle common challenges like food refusal and distractions ✅ Tips for building connection at the table beyond food

Meal times don't have to feel like a war zone—this episode provides the tools to transform them into moments of trust, support, and connection.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) – Education, support, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by eating disorders.
• Ellyn Satter Institute – Resources on raising competent eaters and fostering a positive mealtime environment.
• Equip – Virtual eating disorder treatment providing comprehensive, evidence-based care.
• The Feeding Littles Blog – Tips on intuitive eating and child-friendly mealtime strategies.

Thank you for joining us for this episode on transforming meal times from battles into moments of connection. Small, consistent changes can make a big difference in your child's recovery journey.

Follow us on Instagram @plateful.parenting.podcast for more insights, and visit platefulparenting.com for additional resources.

You're not alone in this journey—let's take it one meal at a time.

In Episode 19 of "Plateful Parenting," co-hosts Christine Santucci and Chanel Kenner, RD explore the intricate relationship between eating disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety, OCD, and depression. Many parents find themselves overwhelmed, wondering how these disorders influence each other and what to prioritize in treatment.

Chanel and Christine break down why eating disorders rarely exist in isolation, how co-occurring conditions contribute to disordered eating behaviors, and what parents can do to ensure their child receives comprehensive care. Christine shares personal insights from her son's ARFID journey, while Chanel offers expert advice on navigating multidisciplinary treatment, advocating for your child's needs, and implementing practical strategies at home.

In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ Why eating disorders often overlap with other mental health challenges ✅ How to approach treatment when multiple conditions are at play ✅ Common co-occurring disorders and how they impact eating behaviors ✅ Actionable tips for parents to support their child's recovery holistically

If your child is struggling with more than just their eating disorder, this episode will provide clarity, reassurance, and a roadmap for moving forward.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) – Education, support, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by eating disorders.
• International OCD Foundation – Resources for individuals navigating OCD and related anxiety disorders.
• Child Mind Institute – Expert guidance on child mental health, including eating disorders and co-occurring conditions.
• Equip – Virtual eating disorder treatment providing comprehensive, evidence-based care.
• The Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA) – Resources for understanding and managing anxiety and depression in children and teens.

Thank you for joining us for this essential discussion on co-occurring disorders and their impact on eating disorder recovery. If you're feeling overwhelmed, remember: you don't have to solve everything at once. Focus on what's most important today, seek support, and take it step by step.

Follow us on Instagram @plateful.parenting.podcast for more insights, and visit platefulparenting.com for additional resources.

You're not alone in this journey—together, we can support our kids toward healing, one meal at a time.

In Episode 18 of "Plateful Parenting," Christine shares a question she recently posed to Chanel over text: How much dessert is too much? Seeking guidance on what is reasonable and how to navigate sweet foods with her daughter, Christine turns to Chanel for expert advice from a non-diet perspective.

Chanel breaks down the importance of routine, light structure, and boundaries around food—without introducing moral labels or creating a sense of scarcity that can drive food obsession and binge behaviors. They discuss how to cultivate a healthy relationship with food by allowing autonomy, removing guilt and restriction, and fostering trust around eating choices.

This episode is a must-listen for parents looking to shift their perspective on dessert, ditch the fear around sweets, and support their child in developing a balanced and intuitive approach to food.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Resources Mentioned:

• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): Provides education, support, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by eating disorders.
• Ellyn Satter Institute: Offers guidance on raising competent eaters and fostering a positive feeding environment.
• The Feeding Littles Blog: Provides resources on child nutrition, mealtime structure, and intuitive eating for families.
• Equip: A virtual eating disorder treatment program offering evidence-based care for individuals and families.

Conclusion: Thank you for joining us as we explored how to talk about dessert in a way that promotes balance and trust. Remember, food is meant to be enjoyed, and creating a healthy relationship with it starts with the messages we pass on to our children. Tune in next time on Plateful Parenting for more insights, support, and expert guidance!

In Episode 17 of "Plateful Parenting," co-hosts Chanel Kenner, RD, and Christine Santucci take a deep dive into bulimia nervosa, a complex eating disorder that can often go unnoticed. They discuss the key signs and symptoms parents should watch for, the importance of early intervention, and the various treatment options available to support recovery.

Christine and Chanel also share actionable advice for navigating difficult conversations with your child about bulimia behaviors, offering tips for approaching these topics with empathy and understanding. Chanel draws on her experience as a dietitian to explain how nutritional counseling fits into the treatment process, while Christine provides insight into fostering a supportive environment at home.

Whether you're a parent seeking to understand bulimia better, suspect your child may be struggling, or need guidance on how to start the conversation, this episode is packed with compassion, practical strategies, and helpful resources.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Resources Mentioned:

• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): Offers comprehensive support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by eating disorders.
• Equip: A virtual eating disorder treatment program providing evidence-based care for individuals and families.
• Maudsley Parents: A nonprofit organization providing resources for families using Family-Based Treatment (FBT) for eating disorders.
• ANRED (Anorexia Nervosa and Related Eating Disorders): Provides information and tools for individuals and families navigating eating disorders.

Additional Resources for Bulimia Nervosa:

1. Bulimia.com: An informative resource offering education about bulimia, treatment options, and support for individuals and families.
2. Project HEAL: A nonprofit organization focused on equitable access to eating disorder treatment, including resources for those with bulimia.
3. Academy for Eating Disorders (AED): Provides educational materials and treatment provider directories for eating disorders, including bulimia.

Conclusion: Thank you for joining us as we discussed bulimia nervosa and how parents can recognize signs, seek treatment, and approach difficult conversations with care. Remember, recovery is possible, and you play a vital role in your child's journey. Tune in next time on Plateful Parenting for more resources, support, and community.