Social Media's Influence on Eating Disorders: Insights from Dr. G

What role does social media play in disordered eating and eating disorders? And how can parents spot early warning signs and have meaningful conversations about these tough topics? In this episode, host Dr. Ruston talks with Dr. Jennifer Gaudiani, a physician specializing in eating disorders for nearly two decades. 

Dr. Gaudiani explains the difference between disordered eating and clinical eating disorders and how social media can fuel both. She shares concrete strategies to help parents talk with their teens, recognize early signs, and prevent problems.

This episode builds on our previous conversation with Isabelle, a young woman who shared her personal journey with an eating disorder and social media’s role in it. You don’t need to have heard that episode first, but they complement each other well. 

This episode is intended for adult and teen audiences but please note it includes discussion of eating disorders, body image, and related experiences, so please listen with care. 

If you or someone you love is affected by any of the issues we talk about today, you’ll find a list of support resources below.
 

Featured Expert:
Dr Jennifer Gaudiani, MD (https://www.gaudianiclinic.com/#welcome2)

Books:
Sick Enough: A Guide To The Medical Complications Of Eating Disorders (https://www.gaudianiclinic.com/sick-e...) by Jennifer Gaudiani 

Time Code:
00:00 Introduction to Parenting in the Screen Age
00:40 Recap of Previous Episode
01:06 Today's Topic: Understanding Eating Disorders
01:30 Meet Dr. Jennifer Gaudiani
01:59 Defining Eating Disorders vs. Disordered Eating
02:08 Impact of Social Media on Eating Disorders
02:19 Clinical Eating Disorders Overview
03:16 Interview with Dr. G: Early Warning Signs
07:27 Social Media's Role in Disordered Eating
10:10 Strategies for Moderating Social Media Use
10:25 Supporting Teens in Recovery
16:33 Parental Challenges and Support
27:34 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Resources:
National Alliance for Eating Disorders (“The Alliance”)
Website: https://www.allianceforeatingdisorder...
Free helpline: 866‑662‑1235 (Mon–Fri, 9am–7pm ET)
Offers: Personalized support and referrals. Also operates https://www.findEDhelp.com, a free directory of eating disorder treatment centers and providers.

National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)
Website: https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org
Offers: Free screening tools, treatment locators, support group listings, and educational materials.

Crisis Text Line
Website: https://www.crisistextline.org
Text “HOME” to 741‑741 to chat with a trained crisis counselor, or use the live chat at the website
Offers: 24/7 mental health support, resources, and crisis intervention.

The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth)
Website: https://www.thetrevorproject.org
Text “START” to 678‑678 to connect with a crisis counselor
Offers: 24/7 crisis support, online chat, and mental health resources tailored to LGBTQ+ youth.