This week, on the podcast, we're talking about the idea that weight loss improves health, and why doctors tend to focus on weight loss with their patients. We also look at what the science *actually* says about weight and health (it might surprise you), and how to advocate for yourself with your doctors.   Another factor we are talking about is weight stigma and how it can have negative effects on people's health. Weight stigma is shown to be pervasive among doctors (and dietitians), and it correlates with worse patient care and worse medical outcomes (which then often get blamed on the patient and their weight). Go ahead and hit play and listen to Katy break down this complex topic so that you can take care of your body and your health in meaningful ways.  “I would argue that weight is a false metric. It's easy to measure, easy to compare and thus it appears useful, yet it isn't, because weight actually doesn't tell us that much about a person. “- Katy Harvey [00:01 - 10:27] Intentional Weight Loss Will Result In Weight Gain Discussing the topic of health and weight pressure from doctors It’s important to remember that everyone is different and what works for one person may not work for another It’s important to be honest with your doctor and let them know your concerns about weight loss being part of your health regimen How BMI is a flawed metric  It does not take into account a person’s health Weight doesn’t determine our health The correlation between being overweight and certain health conditions The bias and has been shown to shown to produce poor health outcomes Being overweight does not mean it’s bad for your health Intentional weight loss is likely to result in weight gain in the long run   [10:28 - 19:23] Understanding The Science of Weight Loss Dieting is not effective and can lead to worse health outcomes Physical activity is a better predictor of longevity than weight Health promoting behaviors Getting enough sleep Taking medications Having access to routine health care Understanding the science before recommending weight loss Weight cycling Telling someone to lose weight will result to losing and regaining it   [19:24 - 29:10] Having a Relationship with Food Being a fat is seen as the worst thing ever Why people avoid medical care The stigma on weight leads to poorer outcomes for fat patients Doctors spend less time with their fat patients Results in poorer outcomes Ask you doctor to talk about your health without talking about weight Asking your doctor to not be weighed The societal obsession with weight It can be harmful to your health The doctor is using a weight-centric approach Katy discusses the benefits and drawbacks of weight discussions with doctors The discussion can be harmful if the doctor has concerns and recommendations about weight Katy recommends that clients advocate for themselves when it comes to their health and weight Don’t just blindly listen to your doctors about weight Doctors should ask their overall relationship with food and health   [29:11 - 32:24] The Benefits of Intuitive Eating Over Dieting Weight cycling is more unhealth than being chronically overweight Weight cycling can be heard on the body and can lead to other health problems Intuitive eating is correlated with improved health parameters Dieting correlates with worsening health parameters Lifestyle changes to improve your diet Adding more potassium-rich foods Physical activity that help manage conditions like blood pressure and diabetes Getting physical activity regardless of weight is a better predictor of the longevity than your weight Health promoting behaviors These are proven to be more effective and enjoyable and sustainable that doing a temporary diet   [32:25 - 39:05] Wrapping up!  Doctors are generally very kind and caring people It is important to practice using your voice and being upfront and direct with your doctor People can overcome fears a