The Impact of Excessive Exercise and Restriction on Hormones in Men with Marcus Kain

In this week's episode, Han is joined by Marcus Kain. Marcus is an Eating Disorder Informed Nutrition and Stress Management coach who specialises in binge eating recovery. Through private coaching and the Strong Not Starving podcast he provides coaching and resources to help people leave binge eating behind, navigate struggles with body image, manage stress, and create fulfilling relationships with food and exercise.

This week, we discuss:

  • The presentation of eating disorder in men and how they differ, or in fact don't, to women.
  • The role of exercise in recovery and understanding what is appropriate for your recovery.
  • Hormonal changes that occur in men due to overtraining and dietary restriction, and the impact this can have on body composition.
  • Diet trends that men may be susceptible to including biohacking.
  • Societal influences and disordered eating in men.
  • Prioritising stress management and recovery.
  • Self-reflection and patience in the recovery journey.

Please note that this podcast explores topics that some individuals may find difficult to hear and should not be used as a replacement for professional advice. If you need further support after this podcast, please consider talking to someone that you trust. You may also wish to reach out to your GP or mental health professional.

We've included a list of additional support options in case you need them:

Samaritans are here for whatever you are going through. You can call free any time, from any phone, on 116 123.

FirstSteps Eating Disorders is an eating disorders charity for children and their families, young people, and adults affected by eating difficulties and disorders. You can call them on or email info@firststepsed.co.uk.

Beat Eating Disorders is an eating disorder charity offering support for those with or supporting someone with an eating disorder. You can call their helpline for free on 0808 801 0677 (England), 0808 801 0432 (Scotland), 0808 801 0433 (Wales), 0808 801 0434 (Northern Ireland).

Recent Posts

Understanding ARFID Through the Lens of Emetophobia
By Hannah Hickinbotham September 8, 2025
Emetophobia is the intense fear of vomiting. Learn how it shows up in daily life, how it connects with eating disorders like ARFID, and what strategies can help.
The Illusion of Healing Binge Eating Disorder with Weight Loss Medication
By Hannah Hickinbotham September 1, 2025
Discover why GLP-1 medications like Ozempic may reduce food noise but can't heal binge eating disorder. Explore what true recovery involves, from regular eating to emotional awareness and reconnecting with your body.
The hidden costs of cosmetic procedures in body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)
By Hannah Hickinbotham August 28, 2025
Explore why cosmetic surgery often fails to resolve body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), the crucial role of clinicians, and how tools like Prepare support safer, more informed aesthetic decisions.
By Hannah Hickinbotham August 18, 2025
ARFID needs urgent recognition - and we're here to help with that.
The Realities of Living with  Binge Eating Disorder
By Hannah Hickinbotham August 11, 2025
Binge eating disorder is one of the most misunderstood eating disorders. In this heartfelt conversation, advocate Zoe Hazel shares her lived experience, the truth behind the stigma, and practical steps toward recovery.
Breaking the cycle - how to talk to children about food
By Hannah Hickinbotham August 1, 2025
Discover how to talk to children about food in a healthy, inclusive way. Learn from Dr. Anna Colton about breaking intergenerational diet culture and healing together.
Show More