E186 - Eating Disorders, Nutrition, and the Brain

E186 - Eating Disorders, Nutrition, and the Brain

Author: Neuroscience Education Institute June 7, 2023 Duration: 19:31

What is avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder or ARFID? How does it differ from other disorders? How are intestinal microbiota involved when it comes to eating disorders?

Dr. Cynthia Bulik is a Distinguished Professor of Eating Disorders and Founding Director of the University of North Carolina (UNC) Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders and Professor of Nutrition, Gillings School of Global Public Health; and Associate Director, UNC Center for Psychiatric Genomics.

Dr. Bulik's research teams at UNC (Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders-CEED) and Karolinska Institute (Centre for Eating Disorders Innovation-CEDI) are dedicated to deepening our understanding of the underlying biology and genetics of eating disorders and to advancing the evidence base for the treatment of these illnesses. As founder and co-chair of the Eating Disorders Working Group of the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium (PGC-ED), she leads the global effort to identify actionable genomic variation in eating disorders. She is Principal Investigator of the global Eating Disorders Genetics Initiative funded by the National Institute of Mental Health. She is also the Principal Investigator of the largest study of genetic and environmental contributors to avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID-GEN), also funded by the National Institute of Mental Health. Together with Ian Carroll, PhD she conducts population-level and intensive longitudinal clinical investigations of the intestinal microbiota in eating disorders. For the past decade, with Donald Baucom, PhD and Jennifer Kirby, PhD she has developed and disseminated a suite of couple-based interventions for anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder (UNITE: UNiting couples In the Treatment of Eating disorders). She also serves as senior faculty on the SAMHSA-funded National Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders (NCEED)—the national authoritative source for information and training in eating disorders. She is dedicated to mentorship of junior investigators, especially women in STEM fields and is passionate about translating science for the public.


The NEI Podcast, from the Neuroscience Education Institute, moves beyond standard medical lectures to explore the nuanced realities of psychiatric practice. This series connects directly with the clinicians and researchers shaping modern thought, offering detailed conversations on psychopharmacology, emerging therapies, and the complex nature of neuropsychiatric diseases. You'll hear experts break down current challenges, from diagnosis to treatment strategies, in a format designed for deep understanding. It’s a resource built for those who care for the mind, providing continuing education that feels less like a requirement and more like a vital dialogue. The discussions naturally evolve from the latest evidence and clinical experience, ensuring each episode addresses the practical questions faced in daily practice. Tune in for a thoughtful examination of mental health science, where learning is woven into every conversation. This podcast serves as an ongoing forum for anyone dedicated to advancing their knowledge in psychiatry and neurology, emphasizing the critical connection between education and improved patient outcomes. The Neuroscience Education Institute grounds each session in its mission to elevate the standard of care through imaginative, high-level learning.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

NEI Podcast
Podcast Episodes
E275 - Busting Myths About ADHD Medications with Dr. Tim Wilens [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:32
In this episode, Dr. Andy Cutler talks with Dr. Tim Wilens about enduring myths surrounding ADHD diagnosis and treatment, beginning with why misconceptions about overdiagnosis and misuse continue to shape clinical hesita…
E274 - Busting Myths About Antipsychotics with Dr. Jonathan Meyer [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:10
In this episode, Dr. Andy Cutler speaks with Dr. Jonathan Meyer to dispel common myths about antipsychotic treatment, from concerns about sedation, personality change, and brain effects to misunderstandings about safety,…