Eliana Lakritz MS RD LDN, Clinical Dietitian, Baystate Noble Hospital (WNG file photo)
by Eliana Lakritz MS RD LDN, Clinical Dietitian, Baystate Noble Hospital
In the health field it is widely accepted that being overweight/obese increases the risk of developing hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. However, you may have heard of or may even know someone whosupports the “Health at Every Size” (HAES) movement. The goal of this movement is to promote both physical and emotional health regardless of weight (usually in the context of excess weight).Many supporters of HAES believe that the risks of carrying excess weight are not as great at those resulting from yo-yo dieting, a phenomenon that often occurs from weight loss efforts. Under the HAES philosophy, healthy eating and exercise (without weight loss as a goal) are still a necessary part of life. However, many health experts are skeptical about HAES. They fear that HAES followers may misunderstand the concept and eat whatever they want to, putting their overall health at risk.
So what does the evidence actually say? In general, the evidence suggests that the degree of overweight/obesity and the location of fat storage both contribute to health risk. Research has shown that of obese people, defined as those with a BMI at or above 30.0, 35% are metabolically healthy. This means that their labs fall within the normal range and that they do not have weight-related medical concerns. By focusing on a healthy lifestyle, obese patients may reduce chronic inflammation, which could improve long-term health.However, these same obese healthy patients are eight times more likely to become unhealthy compared to non-obese adults. As far as location of fat storage, abdominal fat is associated with higher risk of metabolic issues compared to fat along the hip and thigh area.
Overall, the concept of HAES is admirable. However, its practice has to include a basic understanding of proper nutrition, dedication to an active lifestyle, and intuitive eating habits. Many HAES followers may require professional health coaching to practice these skills when self-direction is lacking. If believers in HAES simply “let go” and gain additional weight as a result of liberal eating habits, mindless eating, or lack of activity, their health risk increases.
The HAES movement is a very controversial one. Reliance on weight as a health tool should be considered on an individual basis. It is the health care professionals’responsibility to counsel each person appropriately. Education on topics such asproper portion sizes and balanced meals, for example,would allow each and every personto make educated choices for the rest of their lives.
If you are interested in learning more about nutrition counseling sessions with a registered dietitian at Baystate Noble Hospital, please call 413-568-2811 ex: 5671 for more information.
