Current Impacts of The Health at Every Size Model Upon Adolescent Health Outcomes: A Literature Review
Loading...
Date
2023-05-15
Authors
Wooldridge, Joelle
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
Introduction:
Child and adolescent obesity is a global concern. The number of youths with obesity is
increasing exponentially with subsequent increases in obesity related co-morbidities. Current
approaches to treat obesity include weight-normative style interventions which provide no longterm
benefits and have increased risk of physical and psychological harms. The Health at Every
Size (HAES) model is a safe and inclusive alternative to traditional diet and exercise
prescriptions. This approach has been shown to improve patients’ overall health within adult
populations. Based on these prior studies, HAES shows great promise for use in adolescent
health.
Objective:
The purpose of this review is to consolidate the current literature available pertaining to use of
Health at Every Size and other weight-inclusive strategies within the adolescent population.
Through analysis of current evidence, this literature review aims to determine which of the five
principles of the Health at Every Size model are effective for improving overall health in the
adolescent population.
Methods:
A literature search using PubMed, Wiley Online Library and the University of Manitoba Online
Library databases was conducted using key terms pertaining to Health at Every Size ideology
and its associated principles. Eleven articles and one clinical practice guideline were found to
meet the inclusion criteria and were included in this literature review.
Results:
Common themes found across the twelve documents reviewed included positive outcomes in
both mental health and sustainable personal care practices in the weight-inclusive intervention
groups. Both weight-inclusive and weight-normative groups found improvements in physical
health measures. There were minimal improvements in participant weight biases and
stigmatization in intervention groups.
Conclusion:
The Health at Every Size approach to adolescent obesity and health enhancement is effective for
improving physical and psychological health. In addition, it teaches sustainable health practices
with very little risk to the patient. Adolescence is a time of great change and vulnerability and
using an approach that is protective of long-term physical and psychological health outcomes is
of the utmost importance. Further research is required on promotion and incorporation of this
strategy into primary adolescent care.