In this podcast episode, we unpack the issue of disordered eating in runners with Lydia and Sophie from Stronger Stride.
To start, we dive into how nutrition influences performance, health, and overall well-being for athletes. From there, we explore this in the context of runners who may be navigating pressure around weight and body image. Ultimately, this episode is a must-listen for anyone wanting to understand the complexities of food, fitness, and mental health for runners.
Key Topics
Here’s a look at the key topics we covered:
Disordered Eating vs. Eating Disorders
The difference between disordered eating in runners and a clinical eating disorder, as well as red flags to look out for if you or someone you know might be struggling.
The Impact of Under-Fuelling
Understanding how not fuelling properly can affect performance, bone health, and overall well-being, particularly for runners who rely on stamina and strength.
Power-to-Weight Ratio
How the focus on weight for performance can lead to unhealthy patterns and when to seek support.
Balancing Intuitive Eating and Performance Nutrition
How to eat intuitively while also planning meals to meet specific training and performance goals.
Incorporating Processed Gels
Why processed gels can be helpful for runners, even if they’re working to maintain a mostly whole-food diet.
Fibre and Gut Comfort
We break down how fibre intake can impact gut comfort for runners, especially in the lead-up to a race. Then, we explore practical strategies to help you feel comfortable, fuelled, and free from avoidable digestive issues on the big day. The goal is to understand what works best for your body so you can line up on race day feeling confident rather than concerned about your stomach.
Long Run Fuelling
Keeping energy stable and planning food intake for endurance runs.
Diet Culture and Body Image in Sports
We also explore the pressures runners face from diet culture and societal expectations, and how they can begin fostering a healthier mindset around food and body.
Understanding Cravings and Hunger Cues
Recognising hunger signals to fuel effectively and enjoy the benefits of food for performance.
Using Food as a Reward
Breaking away from the mindset of “earning” food by exercising and enjoying the process of fuelling your body.
Disordered eating in runners can be difficult to recognise, yet it has a big impact on both physical and mental health. In this episode, the conversation sheds light on these challenges to help runners understand how to meet their unique fuelling needs. Ultimately, the goal is long-term success, well-being, and a healthier relationship with running.
FURTHER SUPPORT & HELPFUL RESOURCES IF YOU’RE NAVIGATING DISORDERED EATING AS A RUNNER
If you’re looking to learn more about eating disorders, non-diet nutrition, or how to support yourself (or someone you love), these evidence-based organisations offer reliable information:
- National Eating Disorders Collaboration (NEDC)
- InsideOut Institute
- Butterfly Foundation
- Health at Every Size® / ASDAH
- Lifeline
- Kids Helpline
- Emergency Assistance: Call 000
These resources are a great starting point, but they’re not a substitute for personalised, compassionate care.
If you’re wanting individual support, or you’re unsure where to start, you’re always welcome to book a free 15-minute Strategy Call with our team. It’s a pressure-free chat to help you understand what you need and whether we’re the right fit for you.
You don’t have to figure this out alone. We’re here to help you find your Sweet Spot with food.
