It’s Not Your Fault You’re Fat…Or Is It?

I recently read an article that supported overweight people and their unhealthy food consumption, saying that it wasn’t their fault that they had gained so much weight. For someone like me who has dedicated themselves to staying in shape through sports and exercises, I read all of the support as excuses.

Author John Stossel of the article Whose Fault is it that You’re Fat? composes a valid argument that it is the self person’s interest that they are categorized as obese. Stossel uses sources from both sides of the argument and says that being “fat” is something that cannot be stopped. But professionals disagree.

Stossel’s first point made is used by the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance, namely the yearly parade to boost pride in those that meet the standards of obesity. Never once in the parade did experts in a biological field of study of humans take part in supporting the fat. Rather, belly dancers shouted encouragement to the crowds. This is an overconfidence bias, since the dancers, having no knowledge of any kind of human studies with the issue, use their stance rather than actual facts. Accepting one’s body the way it is, rather than striving it to be healthier, is the main goal for self-made arrogance, which can escalate the situation further. Stossel's point against their point comes from JoAnn Manson, an obesity expert, who says that while genes make up body shape, it is lifestyles that determine overall body weight.

Stossel also mentions a story about twin brothers. After observing the sibling at a food bar, where one brother ate large amounts of food. It was said that he had no regrets about consuming that many calories. He uses philosophy as an excuse for his eating habits, but it doesn’t change the outcome of the situation. Wayne repeatedly knows how much he is eating, but doesn’t understand the concept of how unhealthy his routine is. This makes him susceptible to persistent consumption of food.

And it’s been proven time and time again that if someone sets their mind to it, losing weight is possible. TV shows like “The Biggest Loser” and “Extreme Weight Loss” both support the idea of getting into healthy shape. While the trainers might seem cruel, it’s necessary for heavyweight people. It shows a mindset and constancy is all it takes to lose weight.

So, even if it seems like body shaming, there is a way to get into a better shape. It’ll not only improve your health but also determines a better attitude and outlook on life.