Chapter 1: The Importance of Thoughtful Communication

It might be tempting to say nothing at all when it comes to discussing weight, but let’s dive deeper into specifics.

To start, my credentials: I am a woman who has experienced various weight stages—underweight, normal weight, overweight, and even obese. It would have been simpler to have remained in the normal range, but life doesn’t always work that way.

Additionally, it's worth noting that comments aren’t just reserved for those who are overweight; those who are underweight also face unsolicited remarks. So, please refrain from telling underweight women they should eat more or that they look too skinny. Such comments are rarely welcome.

One of the most frustrating pieces of advice I encountered during my heavier days was the phrase, “Don’t focus on the scale! Just pay attention to how your clothes fit.” Here’s why this advice should be kept to yourself:

First, tracking progress can be incredibly motivating. While it’s true that muscle occupies less space than fat and that water retention plays a role, the scale serves as a valuable tool.

When someone states a weight loss goal, such as “I need to shed 80 pounds,” they are seeking a tangible metric to measure their progress. Since it’s hard to determine what weight will feel “ideal,” these figures provide a helpful starting point.

The distinction lies in clothing sizes. For individuals in a healthy weight range, losing just 5-10 pounds can lead to a drop in pants size. In these cases, how clothes fit can be a reliable gauge of health. Minor fluctuations can make garments feel tighter or looser.

Conversely, for those who are significantly larger, it may require a loss of 30 pounds to fit into the next size down. This considerable change makes it essential to have the scale as a reference point for tracking progress.

Currently, I’m pleased to say that I don’t even own a scale. I can sense when my muscles are becoming more defined or when I’ve gained a bit of softness. My clothing fits differently, which helps me understand how I’m doing in terms of health and fitness. Although I regard this as a healthier perspective on weight and size, I’m careful not to impose this mindset on others who are still navigating their own struggles.

In this video titled "Stop Saying This to Fat People," the speaker discusses the insensitive comments often directed at overweight individuals and emphasizes the importance of empathy.

Chapter 2: The Impact of Well-Meaning But Harmful Advice

The video "Stop Accommodating the MORBIDLY Obese | YMH Highlight" delves into societal attitudes toward obesity and highlights the need for more compassionate conversations.