Study finds the body positive movement is probably contributing to the obesity crisis

The past few years have seen a rise in a movement called body positivity, which seeks to end fat shaming, increase self-esteem, and generally make people feel good in their own skin. Models like Ashley Graham and Iskra Lawrence have been in the forefront of this movement, which saw Graham launch a best selling size-inclusive swimwear line.

However, this movement seems to have had a negative impact on our collective health.

“Seeing the huge potential of the fuller-sized fashion market, retailers may have contributed to the normalization of being overweight and obese,” said Dr Muttarak in a release. “While this type of body positive movement helps reduce stigmatization of larger-sized bodies, it can potentially undermine the recognition of being overweight and its health consequences.”