#106: PCOS Without Shame: A Non-Diet & Trauma-Informed Approach with Kimmie Singh, RD

This week I am so thrilled to be joined by Kimmie Singh, RD to discuss PCOS: what it is, common misconceptions, why medical providers are so confused about it, its relationship to disordered eating, how to take a weight-inclusive and trauma-informed approach, and more. We also get into the nuances of weight and health in general around diagnosis and treatment, trusting your body and intuition, and navigating weight-centric recommendations for managing symptoms. Beyond just PCOS, we talk about grief, particularly expected and anticipated grief. I hope you get as much out of this episode as I did, even if you don't have a PCOS diagnosis. I hope it will allow you to bring more compassion and empathy to those in your life who may have PCOS, or may receive a diagnosis in the future. I really appreciate Kimmie’s vulnerability and honesty in this episode, and I deeply enjoyed talking to her. We discuss... The vulnerability and overwhelm that can happen in our college years that gives rise to disordered eating Weight cycling and dieting and the harm done to our health Fat-positive recovery from disordered eating and the importance of mental health support How PCOS symptoms can impact body image and our relationship with food How PCOS and disordered eating can co-occur, and how PCOS can lead to a higher risk of eating disorders Should you cut back on carbs with PCOS? What about weight-loss and PCOS? The fatphobia and weight-stigma that is baked into standard recommendations for managing PCOS Navigating medical providers that recommend food restriction to manage PCOS The shame around using medication to manage symptoms The health impacts of PCOS that can't be seen on the surface Trusting your body and intuition when it comes to your own health Kimmie's PCOS-focused courses and resources for providers About Kimmie: Kimmie Singh is a self-proclaimed fat Registered Dietitian based in New York City. She is the owner of Body Honor Nutrition, a nutrition private practice that supports individuals to heal their relationships with food and body. Kimmie supports her clients with a fat-positive and anti-oppressive framework and has a special passion for working with people that have polycystic ovarian syndrome. Kimmie is also a sought-after speaker and has presented at several national conferences. She presents on the effects of anti-fat stigma in healthcare and nutrition. Kimmie is a believer in kindness, compassion, and the power of advocacy. Learn more about Kimmie at www.bodyhonornutrition.com . Support the show: Enjoying this podcast? Please support the show on Patreon for bonus episodes, community engagement, and access to "Ask Abbie" at Patreon.com/fullplate Transcripts: If you’re looking for transcripts, you can find those on my website, www.abbieattwoodwellness.com/podcast Social media: Find the show on Instagram: @fullplate.podcast Find Abbie on Instagram: @abbieattwoodwellness Group program: Looking for more support and concrete steps to take to heal your relationship with food and your body? Apply for Abbie's next 10-week group program: https://www.abbieattwoodwellness.com/group-coaching Group membership: Already been at this anti-diet culture thing for a while, but want community and continued learning? Apply for Abbie's monthly membership: https://www.abbieattwoodwellness.com/circle-monthly-group Podcast Cover Photography by Anya McInroy Podcast Editing by Brian Walters This podcast is ad-free and support comes from our Patrons on Patreon: Patreon.com/fullplate This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit abbieattwoodwellness.substack.com/subscribe