Weight Loss Plans Less Effective for Many Black Women

Missing the Mark for Black Women

The popularity of weight loss drugs such as Ozempic and Mounjaro continue to reflect Americans’ desire to slim down. While these new drugs have offered a solution for people struggling with obesity, many eligible patients – especially Black adults – cannot afford the high price.

The Superwoman Role

Black women exposed to the persistent stress of navigating everyday racism and sexism face the additional burden of what researchers call the superwoman role. Not only do Black women have to weather their own experiences of race- and gender-based inequalities, they’re also expected to be invulnerable, hyperindependent and suppress their emotions in order to seem strong to their family and community.

Improving Weight Loss for Black Women

Lifestyle interventions that fully integrate the lived experiences of Black women into treatment may be key to improving weight loss. We argue that Black Feminism and Womanism, which focus on the experiences of women of color, can guide researchers to rebuild and reframe weight loss interventions to be more effective for Black women.

Holistic Health and Well-being

Focusing on the full context of Black women’s lives can lead to better overall health. Obesity, specifically, is influenced by multiple factors, and treating obesity requires a focus on holistic health and well-being. This includes addressing Black women’s economic needs, incorporating faith practices central to Black life, attending to emotional and mental health, and building an environment that makes acquiring healthy food and engaging in daily exercise an easy choice.

Conclusion

Current weight loss interventions vary widely in which elements of Black women’s lives they focus on. For example, some emphasize spirituality while others concentrate on emotional health. Approaches to weight loss that respond to individual needs and move away from one-size-fits-all will be critical to addressing the various aspects of Black women’s lives that affect their wellness.

FAQs

Q: Why do weight loss interventions often fail to meet the needs of Black women?
A: Weight loss interventions often fail to consider the unique experiences and challenges faced by Black women, including racism, sexism, and the superwoman role.

Q: What can be done to improve weight loss interventions for Black women?
A: Lifestyle interventions that fully integrate the lived experiences of Black women into treatment, incorporating Black Feminism and Womanism, can be effective in improving weight loss.

Q: How can healthcare providers and researchers work with Black women to redesign weight loss interventions?
A: Healthcare providers and researchers can work with Black women to understand their individual needs and experiences, and design interventions that respond to those needs.