Weight Bias is a public health problem and social justice issue that leads to health inequities. Weight bias refers to the beliefs, assumptions and judgments towards individuals based on their weight, shape, or size. Weight bias is a result of our conscious and unconscious thoughts, feelings and attitudes. It can affect people at all weights and can lead to treating people differently because of their size. People in larger bodies are often more negatively affected and experience stigma and discrimination. It can result in poor self- esteem, increased depression and anxiety, or suicidal thoughts.
A coordinated approach is needed to address the root causes like Diet Culture. Diet Culture is a system of beliefs in society that equates thinness with goodness and health, promotes weight loss as a form of achieving status, and devalues bodies that do not fit the “image of health”. Individuals may feel pressured to change their weight, shape, or size as a result. This pressure may drive them to follow harmful practices that could lead to weight cycling, restrictive eating, disordered eating, or eating disorders.
Reducing weight bias in society can help to promote health equity, mental health and improved well-being for all.
How do we achieve that?
See the following resources by Ontario Dietitians in Public Health for more information:
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