The Fat Doctor Podcast It's Not Your Fault: The Real Factors That Control Your Weight
Feb 11, 2026
They unpack why blaming individuals for body size is wrong and highlight genetics and epigenetics as major factors. They explore how pollutants, urbanization, and intergenerational effects shape weight. They discuss how chronic stress, trauma, discrimination and social systems drive physiological changes. They call for shifting responsibility from individuals to institutions and policy.
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Genes And Epigenetics Shape Weight
- Your weight is strongly influenced by genetics and epigenetics, not just behaviour.
- Life experiences and environmental exposures can switch genes on or off and change weight regulation.
Dutch Famine Effects Across Generations
- Studies of Dutch famine survivors show famine effects can appear in grandchildren as higher average weight.
- Asher Larmie uses this to explain how ancestral experiences leave epigenetic marks that influence descendants' weight.
Don't Blame Past Dieting
- Stop blaming yourself for past dieting or life exposures; they altered biology beyond your current control.
- Use this understanding to interrupt shame and focus on compassionate advocacy and system-level change.
