NHD STUDENT BLOG SERIES

We know that the narrative often puts the blame on the individual living with overweight or obesity, failing to acknowledge and recognise the systems that are letting people down.  Healthcare, government, food supply, media and the environments we work and live in all contribute significantly to increasing rates of obesity globally.(1) 

Failure to recognise the significant role that systems play in the rising rates of obesity or that obesity is a chronic complex disease(2) can promote rates of weight stigma. 

As future nutrition professionals, you will have an important role to play in working with people living with overweight and obesity and ensuring they receive support and guidance free from bias and stigma.

Well, firstly, being aware of and recognising our own biases, conscious and unconscious, is vital. We all have biases, and the sooner we acknowledge them the sooner we can start the work required to make sure that we address them. We must be conscious and careful not to allow bias to influence our practice.

Focusing on a commitment to person-centred care, recognising each person we work with as a unique individual, and avoiding generalising or making assumptions, are key to good care. 

The British Dietetic Association has guidance on eliminating weight stigma which focuses on using appropriate language and imagery - all so important to avoid reinforcing negative stereotypes.(7)

As with any form of bias and stereotyping, we, as professionals, have a responsibility to continually educate ourselves on the experience and perspective of those who experience discrimination, leading with empathy and insight.