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

The Normalisation of Amenorrhea and RED-S in Female Athletes
By Hannah Hickinbotham July 20, 2025
Learn what RED-S and amenorrhea are, why they are common but often dismissed in sport, and how coaches and athletes can provide better support.
Exploring the Relationship Between ADHD and Disordered Eating with Kate Moryoussef
By Hannah Hickinbotham July 14, 2025
Discover how ADHD can contribute to disordered eating and explore neuroaffirming tips to support the development of a healthy relationship with food and exercise.
By Hannah Hickinbotham July 8, 2025
Lesley and Neal Davison share their daughter Megan’s tragic death from type 1 diabetes with disordered eating, the warning signs of T1DE, and why integrated care must be the future.
The Comfort Blanket of Control: Neurodivergence & Eating Disorders
By Hannah Hickinbotham July 8, 2025
Discover how undiagnosed autism and ADHD often intersect with eating disorders, and why better diagnostic understanding is crucial.
Dietetics Beyond the Meal Plan:  A Trauma-Informed Nutritional Approach to Eating Disorder Recovery
By Hannah Hickinbotham June 16, 2025
Exploring an eating disorder dietitians role beyond a meal plan.
From Silent Struggles with Bulimia to Supporting Others
By Hannah Hickinbotham June 16, 2025
Discover Daniel Magson's powerful journey through bulimia, stigma, and secrecy, and how he turned lived experience into a mission to support others.
Show More