Navigating Weight Conversations in Health Care: Support Without Shame
For many people, health care visits come with an unspoken expectation that weight will be the main focus. Whether it’s subtle comments, repeated weigh-ins, or direct pressure to diet, weight-centric care can feel uncomfortable and discouraging. Weight-centric care can even be harmful, especially for those with a long history of dieting or body dissatisfaction. If you’ve ever left an appointment feeling blamed or unheard, you’re not alone.
This is an invitation to pause and reframe health care conversations through a weight-inclusive lens. Health is not defined by a number on the scale, and meaningful care can exist without weight loss as the primary goal. With the right tools and resources, it is possible to navigate these conversations with more confidence, clarity, and self-advocacy.
Weight-Inclusive & Client-Centered Tools
Access to clear, evidence-based resources can help individuals better understand weight-inclusive health care and feel more prepared when navigating medical settings that emphasize weight. The following tools offer education, skill-building, and support for clients seeking health information that is not centered on weight loss.
HAES® (Health at Every Size®) Health Sheets
The HAES® Health Sheets provide evidence-informed summaries on a variety of health topics, including diabetes, cardiovascular health, and nutrition, without promoting weight loss as a treatment goal. These materials emphasize health behaviors such as adequate nourishment, movement, and access to care across body sizes, while also addressing the impact of weight stigma on health outcomes (Association for Size Diversity and Health [ASDAH], n.d.). The sheets are written in accessible language and may be helpful for personal education or as a conversation aid during health care visits.
