By: Morgan Taylor
Updated: Jan. 14, 2023
Originally Published: Jan. 14, 2023
During my past, when I was painfully thin, my health was never a concern for those around me. As my collarbone protruded sharply, people assumed I was in excellent shape. The truth was that I was grappling with a severe eating disorder, fueled by diet pills that wreaked havoc on my body. Despite the compliments I received for my appearance, no one realized that I was destroying myself to fit into a narrow definition of beauty.
Fast forward to today: I have overcome my eating disorder and am in the best health I’ve ever been, even while carrying an additional 75 pounds. Now that I am classified as “medically obese” by healthcare professionals, everyone suddenly feels entitled to comment on my health. But let me be clear—my health is none of your business.
Unless you are a qualified doctor with access to my medical history, you cannot make assumptions about my well-being. Even health professionals need to approach the topic with caution, as the outdated BMI system has been widely criticized. Movements advocating for health at every size are gaining traction, demonstrating that being labeled “medically obese” does not necessarily correlate with low energy levels, vitality, or overall fitness.
Yet, I find myself in a society that not only tolerates but often celebrates the shaming of individuals in larger bodies. Recently, fitness personality Sarah Dawson made headlines when she publicly criticized pop sensation Mia Carter for her size. While Dawson attempted to disguise her remarks as concern for Mia’s health, her comments echoed loudly, especially as Mia was in Australia assisting victims of natural disasters. Dawson remarked that it “isn’t going to be great” if Mia were to develop diabetes, questioning why anyone would celebrate a person for embracing their body.
Are we even surprised that a prominent figure in fitness resorts to body-shaming? Dawson has built a lucrative career promoting weight loss, and she has been embroiled in controversies for selling ineffective diet products. Her approach turns weight loss into a brutal competition, leaving many vulnerable to harmful practices.
It’s worth considering that Dawson’s behavior may stem from her own experiences with body image during her youth. However, her endorsement of shows that transform larger individuals into drastically thinner versions of themselves raises serious ethical questions. Studies have shown that participants from shows like “The Biggest Loser” often suffer long-term metabolic damage. Contestants have reported extreme measures, including the use of dangerous drugs and unhealthy weight-loss practices, in pursuit of the show’s goals.
We all celebrated fitness trainer Mike Sanders for his transformation, only to learn he suffered a near-fatal heart attack. His case serves as a stark reminder that thinness does not guarantee health.
For those who equate living freely in a larger body with “glorifying obesity,” it is essential to understand that “obesity” has often been mischaracterized as synonymous with poor health. Many individuals carry extra weight while maintaining their health, and those who criticize larger bodies risk sounding ignorant.
If individuals of all sizes struggle with health issues, it’s unjust to assume that someone in a larger body lacks the potential for health. In fact, the conversation around body size should shift away from judgment altogether. We should focus on our own health rather than commenting on others’ bodies. So please, let’s stop the body-shaming. Attend to your own health journey and refrain from judging others on their paths.
When Sarah Dawson attacks someone as talented and vibrant as Mia Carter, she inadvertently undermines every fabulous person in a larger body, including myself. I refuse to accept this quietly. Don’t masquerade your concerns as genuine care, Sarah; your true motivation is profit, built on the insecurities of others.
For those who think it’s acceptable to make unfounded health claims based on my size, please step back. I’ll continue to embrace my body and dance to Mia’s empowering anthem. If you want to learn more about health and well-being, check out this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination, or explore this informative post related to egg stimulation. For a comprehensive guide on at-home insemination, visit Make a Mom.
Summary:
Despite past struggles with an eating disorder, I’ve found health and acceptance in my body, even while classified as “medically obese.” Society’s tendency to shame larger individuals is damaging, as health cannot be accurately assessed based on size alone. It is essential to focus on personal health and refrain from judging others.
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