In today’s society, a pervasive misconception that exists equates thinness with healthiness, and it doesn’t help that it’s shoved in our face every way we look. Even the word “healthy” gives us the ick! This not only influences personal attitudes towards weight but also impacts healthcare practices and policies, which makes it so hard, especially for those who live in larger bodies, to feel safe navigating the world.
Reality: There is no actual evidence that shows living in a larger body equates to being “unhealthy” just as being thin does not automatically equate to being “healthy”. Health is multifaceted and influenced by various factors beyond weight, including genetics, lifestyle behaviors, socioeconomic status, and access to healthcare (queue Social Determinants of Health).
The Evidence:
“Healthy” Habits: Health behaviors such as adequate nutrition, movement that you actually enjoy, sleep quality, and stress management have a greater impact on overall health than weight alone.
Reality: Weight loss is often portrayed as universally beneficial for health, but the method at which individuals pursue weight loss can be extremely problematic. Crash diets, extreme calorie restriction, overexercise, rapid weight loss, along with a number of other detrimental behaviors can have negative effects on metabolic health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. We know that diets don’t work- we have the research to prove it!
The Evidence:
Long-term Outcomes: Sustainable health improvements are better achieved through gradual changes in lifestyle behaviors rather than focusing on weight loss. Improved sleep hygiene and implementing stress reduction techniques are two examples.
Reality: Health is so much more than your body size in relation to gravity. Focusing solely on weight as a measure of health overlooks the diversity and uniqueness of human bodies and the impact of social determinants on health outcomes. Your weight, what you eat, and what you do for movement are the least interesting things about you! What’s something unique about you that doesn’t fall within those categories?
The Evidence:
Stigma and Health: Weight stigma contributes to poorer health outcomes which emphasizes the importance of creating supportive and inclusive healthcare environments. When was the last time you didn’t feel safe in a particular environment? Did you go back? Probably not.
Body image can be a real struggle for many of us. We live in a society that bombards us with unrealistic body positivity messages, and it can be hard to maintain a positive relationship with food and our bodies. But there are ways to improve our body image and start building a healthier body respect.
So, after all is said and done, it’s been quite a journey discovering the truth behind all those body image myths. It’s amazing how much misinformation is out there, but hey, that’s what we’re here for – to set the record straight! And let me tell you, it’s definitely worth it. Trust me, I’ve been there too, thinking that being a certain size or shape was the be-all and end-all. But in reality, it’s just not true. Your body is unique and beautiful, just the way it is. Don’t let anyone shame you into thinking otherwise.
When it comes to your health, though, that’s a whole different story. It’s important to listen to your body and pay attention to any signs that something might be off. I know going to the doctor or reaching out for help isn’t exactly everyone’s favorite activity, but it’s a necessary step in taking care of yourself. Regular appointments are key, especially if you have a medical condition or are in the recovery stage of a treatment.
If you suspect that you could be at risk for disordered eating or any other emotional or mental health issue, we encourage you to open up to a safe support person or to reach out to us for a sounding board!
Debunking myths about weight and health can be so hard when trying to navigate diet culture and is crucial for encompassing inclusive care. Health is not determined by weight. When promoting well-being, this requires a focus on holistic behaviors, body liberation, and reducing weight stigma. Challenging diet culture is HARD. We hear ya. AND, you’re not alone.
For more advice on how to improve your body image, contact us today to work with our non-diet Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and/or Therapist! Considering a weight-inclusive approach can be a game changer in your journey towards body respect and healing your relationship with food.
Hi! I’m Jordyn (she/her), a Registered and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist who specializes in eating disorders. I work with both adolescents and adults to find freedom from food and peace with their bodies from a non-diet, weight-inclusive, Health At Every Size (HAES) approach. I’ll help provide a safe & non-judgmental environment so that you always feel safe when sharing about your relationship with food and your body. I’ll help you find enjoyment and connection in food again (because food is meant to be enjoyed) and a healing relationship with your body, however that looks for YOU, because there is no cookie-cutter definition of recovery.
Hi, I'm Megan and I'm the owner and founder of A Soft Place to Land.
We provide a weight-inclusive and trauma-informed safe space with an emphasis on social justice, non-diet nutrition, fat liberation, intuitive eating, self-exploration, and a Health at Every Size® philosophy.
Through nutrition therapy and mental health therapy, we work with you as a whole person to provide highly individualized care, as you are the expert of your own body.
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