Rethinking Weight-Centric Models: Advancing Weight-Inclusive Care for Black Women

Weight-inclusive interventions offer a promising alternative to traditional weight-centric approaches that focus primarily on weight loss. Black women, who are disproportionately classified as having obesity based on body mass index (BMI) criteria, often face limited success and added stigma from weight-focused models, which overlook the complex biological, social, and structural factors affecting health, as well as intersecting oppressions like racism, sexism, and weight bias. This article examines how cultural norms, body image, and systemic barriers shape health behaviors among Black women and argues for weight-inclusive care, which prioritizes health-promoting behaviors and overall well-being rather than weight loss and better aligns with their values and lived experiences, including autonomy. Evidence from weight-inclusive interventions demonstrates improvements in psychological well-being, body appreciation, and health behaviors, though research in racially diverse populations remains limited. Culturally responsive, weight-inclusive approaches tailored to Black women are essential for supporting sustainable, meaningful health outcomes while fostering positive body image and self-perception.