A Comparison of Body & Eating Difficulties - East to West

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Sean Saw Jun Kyle. Sean has personal experience of difficulties with food and body image and joins Han in this episode to explore the differences between western and Asian culture, and how this may contribute to the development of difficulties with eating and body image.

In this week's episode, we discuss:

  • Sean's experience of growing up in Singapore, and how the conversations around mental health differ from his experience in the UK.

  • The difference in calorie counting and diet culture in Singapore compared to the UK.

  • Sean's experience of force-feeding as a young Dragon Boat and canoeing national athlete, and the nutritional support he received.

  • The normalisation of gym culture Sean was exposed to whilst growing up.

  • The comments Sean received regarding his eating and weight as a child, and how this impacted his move the UK and eating around new people.

  • The difference in understanding of mental health and eating disorders between generations in Singapore, and the change needed for a supportive environment.

Please note that this podcast discusses body types in different cultures, gym culture, and force-feeding which some individuals may find difficult.

Recent Posts

By Hannah Hickinbotham May 4, 2026
Learn how hypermobility, ADHD and neurodivergence overlap with eating disorders, including interoception, proprioception, anxiety and body awareness.
By Hannah Hickinbotham April 19, 2026
Exploring emotional eating, food guilt, and relationship with food through Joshua Hills’ story of growing up around anorexia and rebuilding a healthier approach.
By Hannah Hickinbotham April 7, 2026
Are eating disorders a form of addiction? Explore the overlap between eating disorders and addiction, including compulsive behaviours, shame, and recovery.
By Hannah Hickinbotham April 6, 2026
Families aren't the enemy in recovery, they're the answer
By hannah March 30, 2026
When Recovery Gets Complicated:  Exercise, Neurodivergence, and Why the Lines Aren't Always Clear
By Hannah Hickinbotham March 25, 2026
If Recovery Still Tells People Not to Be Fat, Is It Really Recovery?
Show More