The Starved Brain: Victoria Schonwald

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In this episode, we’re joined by registered dietitian and author of Food Mad, Victoria Schonwald, for a conversation about the impact of eating disorders on the brain. Drawing on her experience and understanding of the science of starvation, Victoria explains how under-nourishment can affect our ability to think clearly, challenge eating disorder behaviours and engage with recovery.

We discuss why insight and motivation alone just isn’t enough when the brain is starved (it’s not your fault!) and how repeated behaviours can become deeply ingrained. Victoria also shares her approach to nutritional rehabilitation, and the ways families and support teams can help someone through the difficult process of recovery.

Topics covered:

• What happens to the brain during starvation

• Why eating disorders can make flexible thinking so difficult

• The relationship between nutrition and cognitive recovery

• Why insight and motivation aren't always enough

• Why weight, BMI and blood results don't tell the whole story

• The importance of consistent nourishment and repetition

• Supporting someone through recovery when they're pushing back

• Recognising cognitive recovery beyond changes on the scales

For more information or to join the Rewired Community: www.rewiredinaction.com/

Connect with us:

Meg

Instagram: @megsy_recovery

YouTube: Megsy Recovery

TikTok: megsy recovery

Safia

Instagram: @safia_edrecoverycoach

Email: hello@safiaed.com

Website: www.safiaed.com

Victoria Schonwald

Instagram: @the_eat_clinic

Website: https://www.theeatclinic.com/

Book: Food Mad – The Nutritional Neuroscience of a Starved Brain

Em (copywriter & editor)

Instagram: @em_schone

Tallulah Self (podcast editor)

Instagram: @tallulahself

Disclaimer

Please keep in mind we're not medical professionals, and the podcast content reflects our own experiences and opinions, so it shouldn't be taken as medical advice. If you're struggling with an eating disorder or disordered eating, please reach out to a medical professional to discuss your own situation and get professional help that's right for you.