A colorful logo for a company called full of beans

Navigating Hunger in Eating Disorder Recovery with Bethany Francois

In this week's episode, Han is joined by Beth Francois. Beth is a registered dietitian specialising in the treatment of eating disorders. Beth’s approach to eating disorder support is rooted in compassion, hope, and freedom. Beth combines evidence-based practices with a deep understanding of the emotional complexities of eating disorders to help her clients find lasting recovery and rediscover the joy of nourishing their bodies and minds.

This week, we discuss:

  • Beth's thoughts around the term "extreme hunger" and why this occurs during eating disorder recovery.
  • The different ways hungered is perceived in active restriction vs recovery.
  • The urgency of hunger in recovery post restriction.
  • The importance of responding to hunger, restoring hunger cues in recovery and reframing thoughts towards hunger.
  • Overcoming fear foods, emotional eating and the feeling of losing control.
  • Tips for navigating binge eating following restriction.

You can find out more about Beth by finding her on Instagram @theeddietitian or visiting her website.

Please note that this podcast explores topics 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 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

Cover photo for The Assisted Dying Bill & Eating Disorders: What You Need to Know with Chelsea Roff

The Assisted Dying Bill & Eating Disorders: What You Need to Know

By Hannah Hickinbotham • March 10, 2025
The UK’s Assisted Dying Bill raises serious concerns for individuals with eating disorders. Could they qualify as terminally ill? Explore the risks, safeguarding gaps, and why better treatment, not assisted death, is needed.

Reclaiming Women's Health by Breaking Myths Around PCOS & Eating Disorders

By hannah • March 9, 2025
Reclaiming Women's Health by Breaking Myths Around PCOS & Eating Disorders

Navigating ARFID with Compassion: Kindsight, Communication & Support with Julie White

February 10, 2025
In this week's episode, Han is joined by Julie White. Julie is a Mental Health First Aid Instructor, Neurodiversity Coach, and peer support facilitator, raising awareness of mental health and neurodiversity.

The Impact of Eating Disorders on Sexual Health with Bethany Ashley Smith

February 3, 2025
In this week's episode, Han is joined by Bethany Ashley Smith. Bethany is a psychotherapist who is on a to help people feel more confident and independent in their healing journey. Bethany has spent 20 years combining her own lived experiences, working as a mental health nurse and her professional expertise in trauma, addiction, ADHD, and relationships. As a neurodiverse, mixed-race woman who’s walked her own recovery path, Bethany brings empathy and understanding to her work.

APPG Report "The Right to Health: People with Eating Disorders are being failed" with Nicky Smith

January 22, 2025
In this week's episode, we speak with eating disorder advocate, Nicky Smith, about report released by The All-Party Parliamentary Group, “The Right To Health: People with eating disorders failed”.

The Implication of GLP-1 Medications on Eating Disorders with Zuzanna Gajowiec

January 13, 2025
In this week's episode, Han is joined by Zuzanna Gajowiec. Zuzanna is a Clinical Psychologist, Family Therapist, and Ireland’s first Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and Consultant (CEDS-C). With over a decade of experience, Zuzanna is dedicated to supporting individuals and families on their journey to recovery, focusing on physical healing, body image, and family connections.
Show More
Share by: