In one of my previous articles, I talked about body positivity and how some women swing between embracing their curves and trying to shed a few pounds. I am no different. For those of you who haven't struggled with weight loss issues, you're lucky and it's hard. It is so hard. And the worst part is that when people learn you're trying to lose weight, they all magically turn into dietitians. The problem with weight loss, particularly for women, is that everyone's bodies are so different and there is no cut and dry method that works across the board. If that were the case, then nobody would complain about losing weight because they would already know how and it would work for everyone. But alas, it does not. So below are the top weight loss comments that people who struggle with their weight are tired of hearing:
1. "You should just watch your portions!"
WOW!!! That's groundbreaking! If only I had thought of that before! Look, I've lost count of the number of weight management plans I've tried, and I always start with portion control. Spoiler alert: it never works for me.
2. "Oh! You're trying to lose weight? Just run!"
Yeah. Running. I hate running. But you know what? I've tried that too, and "just running" doesn't work either. Instead, I go to the gym an extra day or two per week to do some classes, and while that's a great supplement to a meal plan, just working out isn't a foolproof plan either .
3. "Why would you want to change anything? You should just embrace what you have and be thankful."
Some days I am thankful for the body I'm in! But more often than not, I struggle with more insecurity than thankfulness. You don't wear my body, I do. If I'd like to change it, support would be nice.
4. "That meal plan you're using is so unhealthy..."
I know all the health textbooks will tell you that cutting a food group is the worst thing you can do. However, the truth is that it works for some people. My biggest problem foods are carbs, so using simple math, eliminating the foods that are the worst for me will help me see results. (Disclaimer: before anyone jumps on me for using a "fad diet," I'll mention that it was heavily researched and doctor recommended.) Unless I stop eating entirely, I don't want your intervention.
5. "... so you should do this one instead."
Okay. Thanks for your concern. But like I said, I've found what works best for me. Leave me alone to eat my tuna and celery.
6. Literally any other comment.
Look, weight loss is hard enough, and it only gets harder when people try to impart their own thoughts about your actions. I can never recall asking anyone's opinion of my meal plans. Unless someone brings up their plan or asks you about it, don't mention it to them.
All bodies were not created equally. Just like no two body shapes are identical, no two bodies respond the same way to weight loss solutions. Losing weight is hard enough without people throwing in their two cents about what you're doing right or wrong. Kindly keep you opinions to yourself unless you know that your friend is in imminent danger. That's another issue entirely. The best thing you can do for a friend or family member who is trying to lose weight is offer motivation and support. It's a tough enough battle without people bringing in negativity.
