What we’ve learned about obesity, fat-shaming, and hemophilia
For people with hemophilia, there's much more to consider than appearance
Fat-shaming is a widespread issue that can also affect people with hemophilia, especially young children.
At its core, fat-shaming involves making negative comments or judgments about a person’s weight, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy or embarrassment. While these remarks may be intended to encourage weight loss or better health, they often do more harm than good, fostering a negative body image that can have long-term effects.
My husband, Jared, who has hemophilia, had to contend with fat-shaming while growing up. He has an endomorph body type, meaning he has a larger and stockier build that is equal parts muscle and fat. Over time, he came to understand that his body type could actually benefit him as someone living with hemophilia. Building muscle became more than just a matter of aesthetics for Jared; it helped to form a protective barrier against the joint bleeds that hemophiliacs are prone to.
For those with hemophilia, the pressure around weight isn’t just about outward appearance; it’s a matter of health. Heavier bodies that lack muscle tend to bleed more often, and the heavier one’s body is, the more clotting factor is required to treat a bleed. This creates an added pressure for hemophiliacs to keep their weight in check by focusing on building muscle rather than accumulating fat.
For some, gaining weight that’s more fat than muscle can trigger a sense of guilt or anxiety, because they’re aware it might lead to more frequent bleeding. The fear of bleeding more often, especially if they feel their body is too heavy, can be a constant worry.
This hemophilia-specific struggle adds another layer to the challenge of managing body image. It’s not just about fitting into societal norms but also dealing with the real, physical consequences of carrying extra weight.
Jared understands this dynamic well. Building muscle around his joints has become a critical part of his routine, helping to shield him from bleeds and allowing him to stay active with a lower risk of injury.
Challenges of growing up ‘chunky’
It took Jared a long time to accept his body for what it is, though. As a child, he often faced negative comments about his weight. Adults in the community, particularly those unaware of his active lifestyle, would warn him about the dangers of being overweight as a hemophiliac and implore him to lose weight. These comments didn’t take into account that Jared was actually quite sporty. He loved swimming, badminton, and other physical activities, and he exercised regularly.
However, the constant pressure to lose weight took its toll. At just 14 years old, Jared felt compelled to go on a diet. While he did lose some weight, he also lost a significant amount of muscle. The result was that he remained somewhat flabby, and the diet did nothing to improve his body confidence, nor the frequency of his bleeds.
It wasn’t until college that Jared found a healthier and more effective approach to managing his weight through strength training. By that point, I had entered his life, and with my encouragement, he decided to give bodybuilding a try.
One unexpected blessing of Jared’s larger build is how easily he can gain muscle, which plays a critical role in protecting him from bleeds. People with hemophilia are particularly vulnerable to joint bleeds, which can be painful and damaging over time. Building muscle around his joints has helped safeguard him, allowing him to maintain a higher level of physical activity without as much risk.
Though life has gotten busier and we don’t go to the gym as frequently as we used to, the foundation Jared built during his bodybuilding years continues to serve him well. He remains strong and resilient, thanks to the work he put into his body during those earlier years.
Rethinking our approach to weight and fitness
Negative comments about a young person’s weight, even if well-intentioned, can do more harm than good. It can lead to self-consciousness and bleed anxiety. For children with hemophilia, this is especially risky, as concerns over being “too fat” or “too frail” might also make them shy away from physical activities.
Instead of focusing on appearance and playing it safe, I believe that caregivers should emphasize building strength and staying active in a proactive and supportive way. Encouraging kids to enjoy sports and movement helps them naturally develop the best physique for their body type.
Ultimately, balance is key for kids with hemophilia. It’s important that they learn to manage bleed risks while staying active. With a positive mindset and encouragement from those around them, they can embrace their bodies and thrive.
Note: Hemophilia News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Hemophilia News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to hemophilia.
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