Overcoming a Binge Eating Disorder

Sugar is woven into our culture as a reward, a comfort and a celebration. But for some people, the relationship with food becomes far more complicated - and potentially life-threatening. Broadcaster and journalist Phil Williams has written with extraordinary candor about living with binge eating disorder and the hidden toll it took on his physical and mental health. In this conversation, he describes the shame, self-loathing and health scares that finally forced him to confront his addiction. It's a powerful reminder that living well isn't simply about adding years to life, but understanding the behaviors that can take those years away. Phil Williams is a British broadcaster and journalist with more than thirty years of experience on national radio - and the creator and host of the podcast Books on the Beach In 2025, Phil was diagnosed with binge eating disorder and has since been undergoing psychotherapy. CHAPTERS: 00:00 "I'm sorry to tell you..." 02:19 A hidden eating disorder 08:07 The shock of a 50% mortality risk 12:27 Sugar as comfort and celebration 18:28 A lifetime of binge eating 20:36 The health consequences emerge 24:21 Quitting sugar and finding recovery 32:59 Why longevity suddenly mattered 37:21 Nearly 300 days "filth free" 43:23 It's about prolonging the fun If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, help is available. UK: BEAT – the UK's eating disorder charity https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/ UK: NHS Eating Disorders https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/feel... US: National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) https://nationaleatingdisorders.org/ US: National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) https://anad.org/ US: National Alliance for Eating Disorders https://www.allianceforeatingdisorder... DISCLOSURE: This podcast is supported by affiliate arrangements with a select number of companies. We have arranged discounts on certain products and receive a small commission on sales. The income helps to cover production costs and ensures that our interviews remain free for all to listen. Visit our LONGEVITY SHOP for more details: https://healthspan-media.com/live-lon... The Live Long podcast, a HealthSpan Media LLC production, shares ideas but does not offer medical advice. If you have health concerns of any kind, or you are considering adopting a new diet or exercise regime, you should consult your doctor.