Ep 42 | Tackling the Topic of Weight | The Science of Fat and Nuance of Body Weight

In this episode we look at the nuance in the discussion around fat, and obesity and what it means in terms of health. You literally can’t judge a book by its chunky cover, nor can you decide that a skinny ‘book’ is healthy either. This episode reveals the tip of the iceberg in the discussion about body weight, fat gain, fat loss and what we, as a society, think about it. We uncover nuance in the terminology of the adipostat (body weight set point), obesogens, lipedema, the recent change to the food landscape and a holistic look at the meaning of health. **Correction: When talking about fatty liver Julie said ‘visceral fat within the liver’ when meant to use the term ‘ectopic fat’. Check out this new article "Obese and Healthy" which summarises our points in this episode. Further nuance: We open the can of worms that is excess body fat to examine the nuance around using body size to determine one's state of health. We are not saying that carrying excess body fat is innately healthy - but, nor is it always unhealthy! Nor is it a direct product of food and lifestyle choices, necessarily. Medical practitioners, gym instructors, and the general public often look at body weight as a ‘one size fits all’ determinant of health and can unfairly apply judgement, or in some cases diagnoses, or other assumptions inappropriately. The resulting guilt and shame can be arguably more damaging than the cardiometabolic implications that excess fat sometimes carries. Equally, overlooking these risk factors in people of slimmer build can be dangerous, being thin or even athletic does not guarantee good overall health. This episode is only the tip of the iceberg in the discussion about body weight, fat gain, fat loss and what we, as a society, think about it. ~ Reach out to the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Nuanced Naturopaths ⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! Send us your feedback, questions & episode requests. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Check out our Nuanced & Nourished Membership here⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with us on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support the podcast AND your health by shopping at Block Blue Light here ~ CONNECT WITH JULIE ~ CONNECT WITH KARINDA ~ DISCLAIMER FOR PUBLIC: The contents of this podcast or any information mentioned is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you're seeking assistance with your health, please contact an accredited healthcare professional. If you'd like personalised support with your health, you can book a session with Julie or Karinda using the links above. DISCLAIMER FOR HEALTH PRACTITIONERS: The content provided is intended for entertainment and educational purposes. The information discussed in this podcast is not a substitute for professional training. While the authors/hosts make every effort to provide the most up-to-date data and evidence on naturopathic information, this content should not necessarily be considered standard of care and may not reflect individual practices within or outside of Australia. The Nuanced Naturopaths Podcast is a friendly conversation between two friends, us! Karinda and Julie. We’re passionate about finding the nuance in natural health. As degree-qualified naturopaths, we like to ask the questions that need to be asked - about all aspects of health, healing and well-being. We delight in questioning firmly held beliefs and finding the nuance in all subjects health-related and beyond. Sometimes it can get a little technical, but hopefully we explain things in a way that's accessible to anyone interested in natural health, whether you’re a practitioner or someone who wants to learn more and optimise your wellbeing. It’s a chat about poop, periods and everything in between - buckle up for a laugh, a cry and for some things you are yet to consider about your health! Stay nuanced!