Why We Don’t Prescribe Weight Loss
In our society, weight loss has been marketed as a solution for various health concerns; however, the harms of pursuing weight loss are not well known and often overlooked. In this blog post, we will explore the risks and limitations associated with prescribing weight loss and shed light on the need for a more nuanced and individualized approach to health.
Physical and Emotional Health Risks
The pursuit of weight loss can lead to physical and emotional health risks. Extreme dieting, caloric restriction, and overexercising can disrupt the body's natural balance, potentially leading to nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, weakened immune systems, and increased susceptibility to injuries. Moreover, the pressure to achieve a specific weight or body shape can contribute to the development of eating disorders, body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem, and poor body image. The toll on mental health should not be underestimated, as it can lead to anxiety, depression, and other psychological disorders.
2. Weight Loss Maintenance Challenges
Weight loss is often portrayed as a straightforward process, but it is far more complicated. Maintaining weight loss in the long term is very difficult. Research shows that one third to two thirds of dieters regain more weight than they lost (1). In fact, you are 5 times more likely to develop an eating disorder than maintain weight loss. Studies also show that food restriction results in weight gain and does not sustain weight loss in the long-term (2). Sustaining weight loss is unlikely because the body has natural survival mechanisms that resist weight loss and work to regain lost weight. This cycle of weight loss and regain, commonly known as yo-yo dieting is detrimental to overall health and well-being, leading to increased stress on the body and potential negative metabolic changes (3).
3. Lack of Individualization
Prescribing weight loss fails to recognize the diverse nature of individuals and their unique health needs. Each person's body is different, and weight does not provide a comprehensive understanding of an individual's health status. Relying on weight as a measure of health disregards important factors such as genetics, social determinants of health, body composition, metabolic health, previous dieting history, and underlying medical conditions. A person can be metabolically healthy at a higher weight, while someone at a lower weight may experience significant health issues.
4. Shifting Focus from Health Behaviors
Fixation on weight loss often diverts attention from behaviors that support well-being. Instead of focusing on sustainable habits such as eating a variety of satisfying foods, regular physical activity, and stress management, weight-centered approaches can lead individuals to prioritize short-term results over long-term well-being. Health outcomes should be measured by factors such as improved blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, relationship with food, and overall fitness rather than focusing on weight as an indicator of success.
5. Impact on Body Acceptance and Self-Worth
Promoting weight loss as a universal goal perpetuates societal beauty standards and can have detrimental effects on body acceptance and self-worth. The constant pressure to conform to a specific body size or shape can lead to body dissatisfaction and a negative relationship with food and exercise. Individuals may feel judged, stigmatized, and excluded based on their appearance, which can have far-reaching effects on mental health and overall quality of life. Encouraging self-acceptance, body diversity, and a focus on holistic well-being is crucial for fostering a healthier relationship with one's body.
Prescribing weight loss as a universal solution overlooks the potential harms and limitations associated with this approach. It is essential to shift our focus toward promoting overall health, well-being, and self-acceptance rather than prioritizing weight as a measure of success. Recognizing the individuality of each person's health journey and emphasizing sustainable behaviors can lead to positive outcomes. At Experience Momentum, we are Health At Every Size® providers that help clients improve their relationship with food and body in a safe and inclusive space.
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Written by Emily Kinlaw | Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, RDN, CD at Experience Momentum
References
Mann, T., Tomiyama, A. J., Westling, E., Lew, A.-M., Samuels, B., & Chatman, J. (2007). Medicare's search for effective obesity treatments: Diets are not the answer. American Psychologist, 62(3), 220–233. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.62.3.220
Memon AN, Gowda AS, Rallabhandi B, Bidika E, Fayyaz H, Salib M, Cancarevic I. Have Our Attempts to Curb Obesity Done More Harm Than Good? Cureus. 2020 Sep 6;12(9):e10275. doi: 10.7759/cureus.10275. PMID: 33042711; PMCID: PMC7538029.
Bacon, L., Aphramor, L. Weight Science: Evaluating the Evidence for a Paradigm Shift. Nutr J 10, 9 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-10-9
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