I recently attended a gathering of health professionals where a colleague proudly shared a client’s weight loss success story, complete with before-and-after pictures. During the presentation, he highlighted that the client had not only shed a lot of kilos but also “even” got married. Despite my expectation of surprised reactions, no one seemed taken aback by the use of this language.
This incident, coupled with the numerous instances I’ve observed before-and-after pictures being employed as a promotional tool on the social media accounts of nutritionists and dieticians, compelled me to address this issue in the form of this article.
In the world of health and wellness, we often see before-and-after pictures that promise a transformation beyond just the physical. However, this seemingly positive narrative hides a complex web of issues that need our attention. It’s time to rethink using these images as marketing tools, especially for promoting weight loss services.
Before and After pictures reinforce weight stigma and fat-shaming
It’s essential to acknowledge that any set of before-and-after photos that showcase a human being sends a dangerous message. These images suggest that certain types of bodies are better than others, perpetuating harmful comparisons, especially for those struggling with body image and eating concerns. The seemingly innocent remark “he even got married” implies that a thinner body is not only healthier but also more desirable in relationships, perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
Weight stigma is the elephant in the room here. The use of before-and-after pictures inadvertently contributes to a culture that judges individuals solely based on their appearance. The prevalent equation of weight loss with success, health, and happiness oversimplifies the complex nature of well-being triggering unhealthy social and body comparisons. Positive comments on these images such as “so inspiring!” or “you look great!” carry a problematic implication — that the person didn’t look great in their larger body. This narrative not only perpetuates harmful stereotypes but also fuels fat shaming and the damaging notion that being thinner is a morally superior accomplishment.
Before and after pictures support unhealthy weight loss practices
In my journey as a health coach, but also through my personal battle with weight management and body image, I’ve come to understand that health is a holistic concept. It’s about nourishing the mind, body, and soul, not just shedding kilos. Focusing solely on external transformation neglects the internal changes that matter the most.
Think of keto diets, for example, promising rapid weight loss. While the numbers on the scale might decrease, the toll it takes on overall health is often hidden behind the compelling before-and-after pictures. Losing weight doesn’t always equate to being healthier; it’s about adopting sustainable habits that promote well-being in the long run.
A before-and-after picture alone doesn’t provide insights into the individual’s mental health. It doesn’t reveal whether the weight loss journey brought emotional liberation from overeating or if it was just another self-destructive process. The latter could result in eventual weight gain, leaving the person in a deteriorated mental and physical state compared to before the weight loss.
Health professionals need to rethink the weight loss language
As health professionals, our mission goes beyond the superficial. It’s about fostering a holistic approach that prioritizes overall well-being, both physical and mental. We need to shift the narrative from appearances to strength, from comparison to self-acceptance. Our goal is not just changing bodies but empowering individuals to embrace their unique journey towards health and happiness.
The use of before-and-after pictures in health promotion demands careful consideration. By understanding the potential harm these images can cause, we can contribute to a more compassionate and inclusive approach to well-being. We need to celebrate individual strengths and journeys and free ourselves from marketing tactics that promote weight stigma and fat shaming. In doing so, we move from perpetuating harmful ideals to fostering a narrative that truly promotes mental and physical health.
