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Weight-based discrimination and cortisol output: A systematic review
Maria A Kalantzis1, Daniel M Maitland2, Miranda Yannon1
1Department of Psychology, Bowling Green State University, USA.
Comprehensive Psychoneuroendocrinology
|April 29, 2025
Summary
Weight discrimination is linked to increased stress biomarkers like cortisol. Future research should explore how intersecting factors influence this relationship and its impact on health.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Endocrinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Weight stigma and discrimination are associated with adverse physical and mental health outcomes.
- Cortisol, a key stress biomarker, has been studied in relation to weight-related discrimination.
- Understanding this link is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review research on weight-related discrimination and cortisol output.
- To evaluate methodologies used to measure weight stigma and cortisol.
- To identify research gaps, particularly regarding contextual and intersectional factors.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive systematic search of PsycINFO, Scopus, ProQuest, and PubMed databases was conducted.
- Eleven eligible studies examining weight discrimination and cortisol levels were included.
- Study quality was assessed using the NHLBI Study Quality Assessment Tool.
Main Results:
- Approximately half of the studies (5/11) found a positive association between weight stigma and cortisol output.
- Participant characteristics varied widely in terms of age, race, and body mass index (BMI).
- Methodological limitations were identified, especially concerning contextual factors and intersectionality.
Conclusions:
- The relationship between weight stigma and cortisol output is complex and requires further investigation.
- Future research should adopt an intersectional approach, considering factors like socioeconomic status and race.
- Longitudinal studies are needed to model the impact of weight stigma on stress biomarkers over time.
Keywords:
Adults with overweight/obesityCortisol outputCortisol reactivityPerceived discriminationWeightWeight discriminationMore Related Videos
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