What persons with physical disabilities can teach us about obesity

Abstract

In response to Dr Marks’ paper titled ‘Homeostatic theory of obesity’, we discuss how research on persons with physical disabilities, who exist on the margins of traditional notions of beauty and health, can inform theories of obesity. The impact of sociocultural messages related to undesirability and abnormality is explored, and parallels are discussed between obese and disabled bodies. We argue that to reduce rates of obesity, there is a need not only to reduce thin valorization but also to promote social acceptance of diverse bodies, including bodies that are traditionally understood as unattractive, unhealthy and unproductive (i.e. disabled and/or obese). There is further need to reevaluate definitions of health and wellness in order to be inclusive of diverse bodies as well as encourage equitable access to health-promoting practices and social programming.