Exploring the Intersection of Eating Disorders, LGBTQ+, Religion, & Christmas with Dr Kamila Irvine

In this week's episode, Han is joined by Dr Kamila Irvine. Kamila is a senior lecturer at Lincoln University, with a research interest in body image, eating disorders, weight stigma, anti-fat bias, and developmental psychopathology with an emphasis on under-researched and under-represented populations.

This week, we discuss:

  • Kamila's tips for those who don't have the support of family at Christmas and how to navigate the festive season.
  • How to make Christmas your own to enhance your recovery and the enjoyment you have during this season.
  • Navigating body image and food or diet-related comments during the festive season.
  • The shift from indulgence to restriction and diet chat in the media and society, and how to navigate this and triggers that occur.
  • How to move away from the arbitrary rules of Christmas and to make Christmas your own and break the mould to enhance your recovery.

To find out more about Kamila, you can follow her on Instagram @drkamilairvine or Twitter @DrKIrvine. You can also read her research on Google Scholar.

Regarding the study Kamila mentioned regarding the barriers to physical activity for cis and transgender people, you can find out more information here.

Kindly note, that this episode delves into sensitive eating disorder topics. Remember to take care of yourself while listening, and always seek professional help if needed. Please check out REDCAN for more support, as suggested by Kamila. This podcast is your bridge to insightful discussions, not a substitute for clinical guidance.

Recent Posts

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.
By Hannah Hickinbotham August 3, 2026
From Control to Connection through Recovery and Transitioning
Show More