Unfortunately, there are people who still believe it is acceptable to judge and criticize others based on their body size.

With the war on obesity, things seem to be getting worse, despite good intentions. Listed below are some recommendations on how you can take a stand to fight against weight stigma and discrimination.

1. Stop dieting. 

Learn to eat based on your body’s needs. Remove the labels of good and bad foods to avoid deprivation. Make peace with food and learn to use it for the intended purpose – nutrition and energy.

  2. Teach children to love their bodies. 

Body hatred and the root of eating disorders begin in childhood. Children learn beliefs, behaviors and biases from parents, other authority figures, the media and peers about their bodies. Teach children to counter negative stereotypes by accepting diversity to body size and appearance.

  3. Educate people about the dangers of yo-yo dieting and the ways diets can also cause harm. 

While the risks are not usually life-threatening, there is increasing evidence that weight cycling may lead to cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. This does not mean that people should stop trying to lose weight. Rather, it indicates that lifestyle changes, such as proper nutrition and regular exercise, are recommended instead of diets that deprive people of food. 

  4. Advocate for the right information about dieting, weight, etc. 

Ignorance is bliss – unless people understand why diets and rigid rules about food are harmful, they will likely continue to spread incorrect information.

  5. Protest or boycott companies that discriminate against people based on weight.

Weight discrimination will only stop when we demand it. People who are overweight or obese are discriminated against by employers, medical providers and businesses that depend on repeat customers. Let others know about companies and providers who discriminate against people because of their weight. Write the president, CEO or board of directors to report discrimination or weightism.

  6. Be friends with people of all sizes. Make respect, non-judgment and dignity your norm. 

  7. Stop making derogatory remarks about your body.

If you want people to respect you, you must respect yourself. Stop comparing your body to others and change your thoughts and language towards yourself.

  8. Support providers and companies who honor all people. 

Word of mouth is the best advertising – leave positive comments online or recommend these good folks on Angie’s List, etc.