You’re Not the Problem - But Stigma Might Be

Have you ever hesitated to go to a medical appointment because you were worried about being weighed? Or felt like you needed to justify your lunch order to others? These moments might seem small, but they can carry a heavy emotional load. That feeling is often the result of something called weight stigma.

Weight stigma refers to the unfair judgments, assumptions, or treatment people receive because of their body size. It can show up in many places — at the doctor’s office, at work, in clothing stores, or even in well-meaning health advice.

But here’s what’s important: you are not the problem.

Too often, people in larger bodies are blamed for things that are out of their control. Health is complex, and your body size is only one small part of the picture. The pressure to lose weight at all costs can lead to shame, stress, and even unhealthy behaviors - all in the name of "health."

How Does Weight Stigma Affect Your Wellbeing?

• It can cause anxiety, body image distress, and lower self-esteem.

• It may make you avoid healthcare or feel judged by professionals.

• It can create guilt around food and lead to cycles of restriction and overeating.

And yet, none of these are personal failings. They are often reactions to living in a world that treats certain bodies as more worthy than others.

There’s Another Way

Nutrition doesn’t have to be about shrinking your body. It can be about:

• Supporting your energy, mood, and overall wellbeing

• Rebuilding trust with your hunger and fullness cues

• Eating without guilt

• Being treated with respect, no matter your size

This is what a weight-inclusive and compassionate approach to nutrition looks like. It’s what I aim to offer in my work.

If this resonates with you, I invite you to explore a different path - one where your worth is not measured by a number on the scale.