Because of the prevalence of obesity in modern society, the condition has become an ever more common source of discrimination and stigma.
Both discrimination and stigmatization can make a person suffering from obesity quite miserable. Stigma has to do with the negative attitudes obese people face; they often include stereotyping, such as thinking obese people are lazy or of weak character. Stigma also encompasses name calling, physical aggression and being ignored or targeted in a negative way.
Discrimination refers specifically to an unfair or unequal treatment of the person. This includes, but is not limited to, denying a person a job because of their weight, being denied a promotion or a service.
Weight is not an indicator of your ability or qualifications, but employers may be increasingly wary of hiring overweight employees because of how it might impact their bottom line.
Feeling singled out or treated unfairly can bring up all sorts of negative feelings and self-doubt, and you can do little about other people’s attitudes, but you can be better prepared to confront obesity related discrimination by eating right and moving more, but not only for the reasons you may think!
A healthy diet and physical activity will unequivocally put you on a path to a healthier weight, but they also help empower you in many different ways:
1. Working out regularly will give you a feeling of accomplishment and strengthen your resolve.
2. Hitting the gym and ignoring what others may think about your body proves that you can move towards your goals regardless of what others’ opinions.
3. Practicing yoga, tai-chi or deep breathing exercises will help you relax and reduce anxiety.
4. Clearing your head with a walk or some yoga can help you avoid drowning your emotions with food.
5. Choose a gym or open area with people of every size, shape and color. Being reminded that everyone is different and unique can help you gain perspective.
6. Eating a healthy will keep your energy up, it’s hard to face bullies when you feel sluggish because of a diet full of processed, sugary foods.
7. Exchanging highly inflammatory foods for more nutritious options can lift brain fog and help you get a clearer outlook.
8. Eating a healthy breakfast will help keep your energy levels steady and avoid binge eating later in the day.
9. Having three healthy meals and two snacks a day can keep your mood steady, which can in turn help you face challenges in a calmer way.
At LIMARP, our psychology and nutrition departments specialize in the treatment of the obese patient and are often a determining factor in their long term success.
For a free evaluation call LIMARPInternational Center Excellence in Obesity +52 (664) 686-2542 or fill out a contact form at www.limarp.com