There are still a lot of biases and stigma toward people living in larger bodies. It can be as simple as wrongly assuming they are lazy, unhealthy or responsible for the perceived extra weight they might carry.

But did you know that these biases and stigma are really harmful and can increase the risk for many serious health conditions including obesity itself?

Obesity is a complex chronic disease that is diagnosed when accumulated fat is causing health impairment. This means that weight alone is not an indication of health, nor is the BMI. What defines an individual’s weight is actually complex and multifactorial. Shaming someone for their weight doesn’t motivate them to lose weight, but it can be very harmful to their physical and mental health.

Let’s be mindful of our own biases and don’t hesitate to speak up if you witness any fatphobia, weight-based stigma or discrimination.

Sources: https://tinyurl.com/SUFWeightStigma