What is Health at Every Size?

You may have noticed that Nutrition Braved is Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned. But what does that mean? HAES® is an alternative approach to healthcare that does not use weight as a measure of health or well-being. The HAES philosophy acknowledges the natural diversity of body sizes and promotes size acceptance. The HAES® approach focuses on evidence-based factors associated with health and well-being, for people across the weight and size spectrum. 

There are 5 HAES Principles:

1. Weight Inclusivity

Accepting and respecting the diversity of body shapes and sizes.

2. Health Enhancement

Recognizing that health and well­being are multi­dimensional and that they include physical, social, spiritual, occupational, emotional, and intellectual aspects. 

3. Respectful Care

Promoting all aspects of health and well­being for people of all size while acknowledging that socio-economic status, race, gender, sexual orientation, & other identities.

4. Eating for Well-being

Promote flexible, individualized eating based on hunger, satiety, nutritional needs, and pleasure, rather than focusing on weight control.

5. Life-Enhancing Movement

Support physical activities that allow people of all sizes, abilities, and interests to engage in enjoyable movement, to the degree that they choose.

At Nutrition Braved, we help patients of all sizes pursue health without changing their body size or shape. Our approach for each patient is unique, but we often address disordered eating behaviors, gentle nutrition, and joyful movement, which are associated with improved health outcomes independent of weight.

Information for this article was sourced from the Association for Size Diversity and Health. For more information about Health at Every Size, visit their website: https://asdah.org/health-at-every-size-haes-approach/