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

The Full of Beans Podcast

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.

As the IAEDP Chapter Chair of Ireland and Clinical Lead at a Residential Eating Disorder Treatment Centre, Zuzanna also teaches, consults, and supervises other therapists, sharing her expertise to advance the understanding of eating disorders.

This week, we discuss:

• The science behind GLP-1 and how they work in the body.
• The impact of GLP-1s being presented as a safe, miracle drug.
• The difference in dosage and use for diabetes and weight loss, and the lack of research.
• The side effects of misuse of GLP-1 medications.
• How GLP-1 medications can implicate ED treatment and impact recovery.
• The importance of health care professionals understanding GLP-1 medications.
• The attraction of quick fixes as opposed to difficult therapy and how we navigate this.

Zuzanna mentioned a few resources in the podcast, and you can find them here:

• GLP-1 research in ED populations
• Ragen Chastain's narrative on GLP-1 medications
• Ragen Chastain's Substack

To find out more about Zuzanna, you can connect with her in the following places:

• Instagram - @supported_families
• Website - https://supportedfamilies.ie/
• LinkedIn – Zuzanna Gajowiec

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 [e-mail].

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).