Exploring the Link Between Eating Disorders & Menopause with Gemma Sharp and Alisha Randhawa

In this week's episode, Han is joined by Gemma Sharp and Alisha Randhawa. Gemma is an Associate Professor of Research and Senior Clinical Psychologist who leads the Body Image & Eating Disorders Research Program at Monash University in Melbourne. Gemma is also the lead of the International Consortium for Research in Eating Disorders which will be officially launched in September 2024. Alisha Randhawa is a Research Officer at the Body Image & Eating Disorders Research Group at Monash University in Melbourne, and an aspiring clinical psychologist.

This week, we discuss:

  • The link between the menopause and eating disorders.
  • The impact that the menopause can have on a woman's health, including her mental health.
  • The impact of changes in hormone levels, particularly oestrogen and testosterone.
  • The impact the menopause may have on a woman's relationship with her body.
  • The motivation for starting the project Gemma and Alisha have worked on together and the resources required for women going through the menopause.
  • How loved ones can support someone going through the menopause.

To find out more about Gemma, please head over to their research page or send any questions you have about the podcast or Gemma's work to Gemma Sharp gemma.sharp@monash.edu. You can also connect with Gemma and Alisha on LinkedIn to keep up to date with their research.

To find the menopause resource mentioned in this episode, please click here. You can also find the International Consortium for Research in Eating Disorders and online registration for the consortium launch on 25th Sept 2024 using the links attached.

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. This podcast is your bridge to insightful discussions, not a substitute for clinical guidance.

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