It seems as though there are beauty ideals for every part of the body. Advertisements for protein shakes, creams, serums, and treatments suggest that everything—from upper arms, toes, and thighs to eyelashes and cuticles—can be improved. Alongside these ideals, there is also a norm of having a toned and slim body. “Have you lost weight?” is often used as a compliment, reflecting the belief that thinner is better.

Sizeism refers to a system of discrimination where thinness is seen as beautiful and as a sign of health, self-discipline, and positive qualities. Many people consciously or unconsciously exhibit fatphobia, where extra body fat is viewed as unattractive and associated with negative traits like laziness and poor self-discipline. This is despite well-documented research showing that metabolism and body shape vary among people and that there are many forms of healthy bodies across a wide range of sizes. Fatphobia and sizeism are so ingrained in society that we often don’t notice or question them.

"He was smart for being so fat.The comment was about me, but not directed at me. It probably wasn’t intended for me to hear it as I stood in line to leave the conference hall, right after stepping off the stage as the final speaker before the break.”

This is written by Roar Thon in an opinion piece in VG. He describes the prejudice, belittlement, and differential treatment he faces as an overweight individual.