Stop Obsessing Over Weight: Why Healthy Body Image Matters for Women and Children

Rajkumari Sharma Tankha

The other day, a group of friends and I were discussing children—a favourite topic among most mothers—when one of them shared something that left me stunned.

She told us that her 10-year-old daughter had stopped eating lunch after returning from school.

When she asked her why, the child replied: “I don’t want to become fat like you.”

The remark was shocking, but also revealing. A child so young does not develop such thoughts on her own. She must have heard similar comments at home—perhaps her mother worrying about weight, complaining about being fat or constantly talking about dieting.

And that set me thinking.

Why Are Women So Obsessed With Weight?

Why are so many women constantly worried about their weight?

Is a plump woman somehow less worthy than a slimmer one?
Is she less accepted in society?
More importantly, does being overweight make a woman any less capable, intelligent or beautiful?

The answer, of course, is no.

Yet many women continue to judge themselves harshly based on the number displayed on a weighing scale.

Health Matters More Than Size

Instead of obsessing over body size, women should focus on overall health and physical fitness.

A healthy body is far more important than a thin one.

In fact, many so-called “plump” women manage their homes, work and daily responsibilities with remarkable energy, while some slimmer individuals often complain of fatigue and exhaustion.

Often, the issue is not body size but lack of physical strength and stamina.

The Dangerous Trend of Crash Dieting

In the pursuit of a slimmer body, many women go to extreme lengths.

I know someone who frequently resorts to crash dieting just to fit into a pair of jeans she bought four years ago.

But bodies change with time—and that is perfectly natural.

Expecting to maintain the same figure at 40 that you had at 20 is unrealistic. Age, lifestyle and hormonal changes inevitably affect body shape.

Instead of fighting this reality, it is far healthier to accept it gracefully.

Crash dieting can actually harm the body. It deprives the system of essential nutrients and vitamins, often leaving a person looking pale, tired and unhealthy.

Even worse, poor nutrition can contribute to anxiety, mood swings and depression.

When Weight Loss Becomes Unhealthy

Recently, I met an acquaintance who had lost a significant amount of weight.

Instead of looking healthier, she appeared pale and frail. When I asked about it, she proudly said she had joined a fitness centre that uses machines to “melt” and remove fat cells from the body.

I almost told her that she looked unwell—but sometimes it is difficult to puncture someone’s enthusiasm.

The truth is that extreme weight loss does not necessarily mean good health.

Accept Your Body, Celebrate Your Self

Here’s a simple question: when you make friends, do you choose them only based on their physical appearance?

Do you only bond with slim and perfectly toned people?

Or do you connect with individuals because of their personality, kindness, warmth and character?

The answer is obvious.

True beauty lies far deeper than physical appearance.

So why judge yourself so harshly based on your body shape?

The Message We Send to Our Children

Perhaps the most important reason to rethink our attitude towards weight is the impact it has on children.

Kids observe everything. They hear every comment, notice every complaint about body shape and absorb those insecurities.

When mothers constantly worry about their weight, children begin to believe that body size defines self-worth.

That is a dangerous lesson to pass on.

Focus on Health, Not the Weighing Scale

Instead of obsessing about becoming thinner, focus on becoming healthier and stronger.

• Eat balanced and nutritious meals

• Exercise regularly

• Stay active

• Maintain emotional well-being

A healthy body, a peaceful mind and a contented heart are far more valuable than fitting into a smaller dress size.

And above all, never discuss weight anxieties in front of children. They are watching, listening and learning from you every day.

The best lesson we can teach them is simple:
Self-worth is not measured in kilograms.

inner beauty? You have got your answer. Right!

So, the point is instead of stressing on becoming thin, stress on becoming healthy and physically fit. Take proper diet. Eat healthy food. Exercise regularly. Keep your heart and soul happy and mind contended. And for God’s sake do not fuss over weight issues before your children. Kids notice everything. Don’t give them the wrong messages.