Dive into the idea that health is largely influenced by societal factors, debunking the myth of an ideal body. The discussion reveals how ableism and healthism affect perceptions of well-being and introduces a holistic view of health. Personal anecdotes lighten the conversation as the hosts emphasize the importance of social justice in health. Explore how constructs like adulthood and gender shape our beliefs about health, and challenge misconceptions around weight and fitness. The episode is a compelling call for self-acceptance and a broader understanding of what it means to be healthy.
Health is influenced by societal beliefs and values, making it a social construct rather than a fixed state determined solely by individual choices.
The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding social determinants of health, highlighting that factors like access to medical care and environmental conditions play a larger role than personal behaviors.
Deep dives
Health as a Social Construct
Health is defined not only by the absence of disease but also by a person's overall well-being, including mental and social dimensions. The podcast emphasizes that health is largely a social construct influenced by society's collective beliefs and values. Ideas surrounding health and fatness often reflect societal biases, positioning certain bodies as more acceptable than others. This perspective challenges individuals to reconsider the limitations of conventional definitions of health and recognize how societal standards contribute to feelings of inadequacy.
Social Determinants of Health
A significant portion of health outcomes is shaped by factors beyond individual control, known as social determinants of health. These determinants include social circumstances, genetics, medical care access, and environmental conditions, accounting for around two-thirds of an individual's health status. The podcast discusses how behaviors often associated with health, such as diet and exercise, only account for a smaller percentage of what constitutes a person's overall health. This broader understanding prompts listeners to reevaluate their perceptions of health and acknowledge the complex interplay of societal influences.
Challenging Conventional Beliefs
The podcast critiques the tendency to view health as a destination that can be reached through simple actions, such as eating right and exercising. It highlights the dangers of attributing moral value to health status, leading to stigmatization of those who do not fit conventional health ideals. This perspective reinforces the notion that being unhealthy is often viewed as a personal failing, particularly for those in larger bodies. By recognizing that health is not solely determined by individual behavior, listeners are encouraged to adopt a more nuanced understanding of health as it relates to the broader social context.
Cultural Perspectives on Health
Exploring health from diverse cultural viewpoints reveals that differing values and beliefs influence individual health perceptions and practices. The podcast presents the Indigenous perspective on health, which emphasizes holistic well-being through balanced mental, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects. This contrasts sharply with predominantly Western approaches that focus on physicality and aesthetics. By understanding and valuing different cultural approaches to health, individuals can foster a more inclusive and compassionate view of health that recognizes the complexities of human experience.
There are so many things that influence health and most are not in our control. The moralistic value that society places on "healthy" bodies is ableism, healthism, and not helpful for anyone. "Health" is largely a social justice issue and also a social construct. "Health" is not attainable for many and a temporary state of being. What the heck am I even talking about?! Tune into this episode for a deep dive into the concept of health being a social construct.
Episode show notes: http://www.fiercefatty.com/129
Free Training: The 4 Simple Steps to Feel Confident in Your Body and Around Food ... Even If You Believe It's Not Possible! https://event.webinarjam.com/channel/org
What is health from Govt of Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/population-health/population-health-approach/what-is-health.html What is a social construct: https://examples.yourdictionary.com/what-is-social-construct-common-examples-explained The Social Construction of Health: https://opentextbc.ca/introsociology2eopenstax/chapter/the-social-construction-of-health/ Determinants of health IG post: https://www.instagram.com/p/CeUFtCmgCaM/ Determinants of health GoInvo: https://www.goinvo.com/vision/determinants-of-health/ First Nations Perspective on Health and Wellness: https://www.fnha.ca/wellness/wellness-for-first-nations/first-nations-perspective-on-health-and-wellness#:~:text=We%20have%20a%20responsibility%20to,beauty%3B%20it%20nurtures%20our%20souls
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode