The debate between acceptance and health
In recent years, the concept of Body Positivity has gained popularity, promoting acceptance of all bodies and countering weight-related stigma. It's a positive principle that has helped valorize diversity and combat discrimination. However, in some cases, the evolution of this movement has led to an extreme view, where any discussion about health related to weight is perceived as an attack on individual freedom. This leads us to reflect on the importance of a balanced approach, where respect for oneself and others combines with awareness of health risks. It is therefore fundamental to distinguish between acceptance and well-being, understanding how body weight influences our overall health. Health cannot be sacrificed in the name of inclusivity. Obesity is not just an aesthetic issue, but a concrete risk factor for longevity and quality of life. Several studies have shown that being overweight increases the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and some types of cancer. The New England Journal of Medicine has highlighted that obesity can reduce life expectancy by up to ten years, depending on the severity of the case. These data help us understand how essential it is to address the issue of weight with a perspective based on science and long-term well-being, rather than on superficial judgments or radical ideologies.
The role of science in weight management
Within this complex discussion lies the Body Positivity movement, born with the intent to promote self-acceptance, fight discrimination, and value the diversity of bodies. However, in recent years, it has become radicalized to the point of challenging anyone who talks about weight loss, spreading the idea that promoting a healthy lifestyle equates to "fatphobia." This attitude risks dissuading people from making informed decisions for their health, leaving them trapped in conditions that compromise their quality of life. Accepting one's body doesn't mean ignoring the risks associated with obesity: true awareness comes from balance, that is, appreciating oneself without neglecting the impact that body weight has on metabolism, internal organs, and the ability to maintain optimal energy over time.
Faced with this complexity, scientific research has developed solutions for weight control, aimed at improving quality of life without falling into extremism. Innovation has led to the creation of drugs such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide), which have demonstrated their ability to promote weight loss in a safe and sustainable way, improving vital parameters such as blood glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure. These solutions open new perspectives for those struggling with overweight and obesity, but they are not exempt from criticism. Some commentators have contested them, arguing that they contribute to reinforcing the stigma of obesity. However, it is essential to understand that these treatments are not an aesthetic solution, but medical tools that can significantly improve the health of those suffering from pathological obesity.