My patients think Ozempic is a wonder drug. But it can't fix fat phobia
Yes, as Oprah enthused, the drugs help people shrink their bodies. But the psychological damage of weight stigma can't be so easily cured, a doctor writes.
weight stigma
In 'Unshrinking,' a writer discusses coming out as fat and pushing back against bias
Kate Manne tried to shrink her body for years before embracing her size as part of a "natural, normal human variation." She says the fight against fat phobia must start in the doctor's office.
I try to be a body-positive doctor. It's getting harder in the age of Ozempic
A physician decided to stop talking to patients about weight, and focus on health instead. But the new weight-loss drugs forced her to rethink how to help patients without feeding into stigma.
Scant obesity training in medical school leaves docs ill-prepared to help patients
Most doctors get little training in the science of obesity or how to counsel people with the disease. As a result, many patients experience stigma in the exam room.
Praise, Don't Tease, And Other Tips To Help Kids With Their Weight
Even well-intended comments about weight and dieting can actually harm children. Here's advice for how to set kids up for a healthy life and a positive self-image.