The latest guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommend that doctors should always seek permission before discussing obesity with patients. In the author's experience, asking for permission is not an effective way to alleviate the lifelong stigma experienced by people with obesity. This approach suggests to patients that the doctor sees obesity as a problem and can hinder effective consultation. The author quotes Steven Fry: "One of the greatest human failings is to prefer being right to being effective." In brief primary care consultations, the author talks less about weight and more supports people with obesity. Weight-related stigma, including that from a doctor, can increase people's risk of adverse health conditions.