Rudd Sound Bites

Body Image as a Predictor of Health

by Beth Rocchio

When I saw the headline – “Body Image is Stronger Predictor of Health Than Obesity” - I felt concerned that it might be misinterpreted as, "as long as I feel good about myself, I don't have to lose weight to be any healthier."

It goes without saying that many different theories about obesity hold some water, and that we need to find the truth and limitations of each theory in order to attain the larger truth and best serve people.

Fat Acceptance Blogs Raise Good Questions

by Rebecca Puhl

An interesting article appeared in the NY Times recently by Roni Rabin, describing an increasingly popular venue for fat acceptance movements: the “Fatosphere” of blogs. New fat acceptance blogs like “Big Fat Deal” and “Fatgirl” are receiving more and more attention from viewers and bloggers.

On the one hand, these blogs can provide an important and needed outlet to challenge weight-based stereotypes and unrealistic ideals of physical attractiveness, and can also give a voice to many individuals who are often unfairly silenced or ignored because of their body size. Many useful discussions and dialogue can take place in this manner, and potentially help to shift damaging societal attitudes that fuel weight bias, and promote healthy lifestyle behaviors and self-acceptance at difference body sizes.

Mississippi Bill Puts Weight Bias on the Menu

by Kelly Brownell and Rebecca Puhl 

In late January, the Mississippi House of Representatives introduced House Bill 282 (HB 282) which seeks to prohibit state-licensed food establishments from serving food to any person who is obese, as defined by criteria outlined by the Mississippi State Department of Health.

The Rudd Center is strongly committed to reducing weight bias, and is deeply disturbed by and concerned with this proposed legislation.