Can You Have an Eating Disorder at Any Size? (Yes - Here’s Why)
It's time we debunk a harmful myth: eating disorders only happen to those in smaller bodies. In reality, eating disorders do not discriminate - they can affect anyone regardless of their shape and size.
1. Eating Disorders Affect Everyone - Including Those in Higher-Weight Bodies
Contrary to widespread assumptions, people living in larger bodies experience eating disorders just as frequently, and sometimes more so, than those in lower-weight bodies. In fact, over half of individuals with an eating disorder in Australia are in larger bodies, with prevalence rising most rapidly in this group. Yet, their disorders are often under-recognised and under-treated.
These illnesses carry considerable health risks and they’re not any less serious because of body size. Eating disorders in all individuals are associated with medical complications and heightened psychological distress, including increased risk of self-harm.
2. Stereotypes Impede Diagnosis and Access to Care
Society tends to equate eating disorders with thinness, a misconception that can be dangerous. People in larger bodies are frequently misdiagnosed, dismissed, or even denied access to appropriate care.
Weight stigma compounds the problem. Studies show that experiencing weight-based discrimination can worsen physical health - raising blood pressure, cortisol levels, inflammation, and lowering glycemic control.
3. Australia Leads with Weight-Inclusive Clinical Guidelines
Thankfully, recent developments indicate a shift toward improved recognition and care. In August 2022, Australia’s National Eating Disorders Collaboration (NEDC) unveiled a clinical practice guideline specifically for people with eating disorders who are in larger bodies.
These guidelines, rooted in clinical evidence, lived experience, and expert consensus focus on weight-inclusive, stigma-free care that centres on the behaviours and distress underlying eating disorders, not on body size.
4. Health at Every Size® (HAES®): A Weight-Neutral, Compassionate Approach
The Health at Every Size® (HAES®) paradigm shifts the conversation away from weight and toward holistic well-being. It promotes body respect, inclusive care, and health-affirming behaviors - regardless of what the number on the scale reads.
Research shows that HAES-informed care can improve psychological health, reduce disordered eating behaviors, enhance self-worth, and even benefit physical health markers, without the harm that often accompanies weight-focused dieting.
What You Should Remember
Eating disorders can affect anyone, no matter size - these are complex mental health conditions, not body-size issues.
Stereotypes and weight stigma hinder timely diagnosis and treatment, particularly for those in larger bodies.
Emerging, evidence-based guidelines in Australia are helping clinicians deliver more equitable, weight-neutral care.
HAES® offers a powerful, compassionate path forward, focusing on healing behaviors rather than body shape.
If you, or someone you know, suspects an eating disorder, please seek help without letting body size cloud judgment. All bodies deserve respect, understanding, and effective treatment.
Need More Guidance?
For individualised advice and support, our dietitian Henrietta, with her passion for inclusive, client-centered care through the Health at Every Size (HAES) approach, is here to help!
To book an appointment, visit the link below or call us on 07 4566 0765.