What If Obesity Is Nobody’s Fault?

1/5/2015

This Nautilus article questions the widely held belief that obesity is solely the result of personal choices and lack of willpower. It argues that genetics, environment, and social factors play significant roles in the obesity epidemic. The article explores research conducted on individuals from the Pacific Island of Nauru, where obesity rates are extremely high. It highlights how historical and cultural factors have contributed to the island's obesity problem, making it a case study for understanding the complex nature of obesity. The author suggests that shifting the blame solely onto individuals overlooks the systemic issues that contribute to obesity and hinders effective solutions.

obesity ꞏ weight gain ꞏ body image ꞏ health ꞏ genetics ꞏ environment ꞏ diet ꞏ exercise ꞏ metabolism ꞏ nutrition ꞏ public health ꞏ blame ꞏ responsibility ꞏ personal choices ꞏ societal factors ꞏ genetics vs environment ꞏ weight stigma ꞏ body positivity ꞏ weight management ꞏ obesity epidemic ꞏ weight loss ꞏ lifestyle ꞏ emotional eating ꞏ diet culture ꞏ body mass index ꞏ fat shaming ꞏ weight discrimination ꞏ food industry ꞏ food marketing ꞏ body composition ꞏ body fat ꞏ body acceptance ꞏ weight bias ꞏ eating disorders ꞏ obesity research ꞏ obesity prevention ꞏ weight-related diseases ꞏ obesity statistics ꞏ obesity treatment ꞏ societal pressure ꞏ body stereotypes ꞏ body shame ꞏ body perception ꞏ body positivity movement ꞏ social determinants of health ꞏ childhood obesity ꞏ obesity rates ꞏ body diversity ꞏ unhealthy lifestyle ꞏ weight control