An imperfect conversation about BMI. Is it a good measure of health? Or a tool that perpetuates weight stigma?

 

In this week’s episode, I am discussing the topic of BMI. I would like to preface this episode by saying that I acknowledge my thin privilege, so this is by no means a perfect conversation. However, I do believe that it is an important one to have. The definition of health is somewhat subjective. Tools such as the BMI neglect to consider psychological, environmental and social aspects of health (to name a few), so is it really a good measure of health? Or is it simply a tool that perpetuates weight stigma? I discuss these points and more in this episode.

I discuss:

  • When and why the concept of BMI was developed (6:00)

  • Weight stigma and the validation of BMI. Can someone's BMI really tell us how healthy they are? (10:00)

  • What are the consequences of using BMI in practice? (13:00)

  • Is there any relationship between weight and health? (14:12)

  • The value we place on the life and lived experiences of those living in larger bodies. Have you considered your own potential weight biases? (19:15)

  • The impact of labeling someone as being healthy or unhealthy based on their BMI. Is it helpful or harmful (20:05)

  • Why the ability to change one’s body composition, size or weight is is a lot more complex than you think (24:46)

Should you need support, help is available

Lifeline Australia 13 11 14 

Beyond Blue 1300 224 636

Want to continue the conversation?
Join our Facebook community

Want to support the podcast?

  • Hit ‘+’ to follow in Apple Podcasts and leave a review or hit ‘follow’ in Spotify

  • Subscribe to my weekly newsletter (I won’t spam you, promise)

  • Follow me on Instagram @marikaday

  • Share a screenshot of the podcast on your socials (don’t forget to tag me!)

Rachel Hawkins