Reclaiming Narratives: Eating Disorders, Body Image & The Gay Community

In this week's episode, Han is joined by Ed Millgate. Ed is a Clinical Scientist with a specific interest in schizophrenia, however, Ed joins us today to step away from his research practice and share his experience of an eating disorder and the interaction his sexuality did, and didn't play a role in its development.

  • Ed's personal experience of developing an eating disorder and how this tied into his identity.

  • The impact Ed's sexuality had on the development of his eating disorder, and how his body shape supported his identity.

  • The pressures which exist in the gay community to conform to particular body types.

  • The role of dating apps and how they contribute to body image and self-esteem preoccupation.

  • The overlap, yet distinction, between the development of Ed's eating disorder and thoughts regarding his sexuality.

  • Elements within a treatment setting that would have retrospectively supported Ed's recovery.

Please note that this podcast discusses eating disorder topics that some individuals may find triggering. Please check in with yourself along the way, and remember this is not a replacement for clinical support and advice.

Recent Posts

By Hannah Hickinbotham October 13, 2025
Eating disorders affect more than the individual, they impact the whole family.
By Hannah Hickinbotham October 6, 2025
Discover how George Mycock's research is reshaping eating disorder support for men. Learn why inclusive, person-centred resources matter — and how services can better reach men at every stage of their journey.
By Hannah Hickinbotham September 29, 2025
What happens when your eating disorder recovery is deeply intertwined with your neurodivergence?
Nightingale Hospital, London
By Hannah Hickinbotham September 24, 2025
Nightingale Hospital is now sponsoring the Full of Beans podcast. Discover why their values align so deeply with ours and what this partnership means for the future.
By Hannah Hickinbotham September 21, 2025
Autism and anorexia might be related, but what happens if you don't know you're autistic?
Exploring the Risks of Unregulated Weight Loss Medications
By Hannah Hickinbotham September 14, 2025
Unregulated access to GLP-1 weight-loss drugs poses serious risks—particularly for those with a history of eating disorders. Here's why regulation, screening, and support must be prioritised.
Show More