Tag: Inclusive language

The English language contains over 170,000 words, yet many people struggle to find a suitable replacement for the word 'fat' when describing a person's body size. The choice of language is crucial, as the term 'fat' has long been associated with negative connotations, stigma, and judgment, particularly in modern usage. Understanding the context and choosing the right word can help ensure communication is both accurate and respectful.

According to the American Psychological Association, weight-based discrimination rose by an alarming 66% in one decade. The use of derogatory terms like 'being a fatty' is a symptom of this pervasive social issue, reflecting harmful biases rather than a neutral description of a person's body.

According to the Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) organization, an estimated 32 million Americans have food allergies, highlighting the widespread need for respectful and accurate language when discussing what people can and cannot eat. Moving beyond the often-negative connotation of the term "dietary restrictions" allows for more precise and inclusive conversations about food and nutrition.