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 September 14, 2026
The hidden reality of bingeing and purging
By Hannah Hickinbotham September 7, 2026
A guide for teachers on recognising the early signs of an eating disorder, beyond weight and appearance
By Hannah Hickinbotham August 31, 2026
Reconnecting With Appetite in Eating Disorder Recovery
Compulsive Exercise, Eating Disorders & Fixing Gym Culture with Sophie du Plessis
By Hannah Hickinbotham August 23, 2026
ED advocate and trainee nurse, Sophie, shares the story behind her campaign, ED informed, to raise awareness of eating disorders and reduce disordered eating in gym cultures.
By Hannah Hickinbotham August 17, 2026
Why is binge eating disorder still missed by GPs? Dr Stella Kozmér unpacks screening gaps, weight stigma, and what GLP-1 meds might mean for BED.
By Hannah Hickinbotham August 10, 2026
Learning how to spot toxic wellness culture with Elle Mace on 17 years of disordered eating, body dysmorphia, and finding real food freedom.
Show More