Beauty Is Not Defined by Size
Beauty has nothing to do with dress size, and being overweight should never be a reason to hide or feel ashamed. Although excess weight affects both men and women equally, society often treats the two very differently. While many people view male weight gain as normal, women frequently face harsher judgement.
Why Is a “Beer Belly” Viewed Differently?
People who do not match society’s ideal weight often face criticism. Yet a man with a beer belly is commonly seen as relaxed, sociable, or even successful. In contrast, a woman with a larger belly is often unfairly labelled as lazy or lacking discipline—unless she is pregnant, which is one of the few socially accepted reasons for weight gain. These stereotypes create significant pressure for women and can harm their self-esteem and body image.
Health Risks Affect Everyone Equally
Regardless of society’s double standards, excess weight impacts the health of men and women in the same way. Obesity increases the risk of serious conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and joint problems. The body does not distinguish between genders when it comes to the physical consequences of being overweight.
Are Beauty Standards Changing?
The idea that “slim equals beautiful” is slowly losing power. The rise of body positivity in media and fashion is helping more people recognise that beauty comes in many shapes and sizes. This shift has improved the self-confidence of women who don’t match traditional ideals—but progress is slow. Studies show women are more likely to internalise negative weight-related comments, which can ironically contribute to further weight gain. Interestingly, the same effect is not consistently seen in men.
No One Should Feel Ashamed of Their Body
Unrealistic beauty ideals can harm emotional well-being. Embracing a more compassionate attitude toward your body leads to better mental and physical health. Beauty should never be measured by weight. However, body positivity is not an excuse to ignore health. It simply encourages people to value themselves while recognising that weight and health are closely connected.
Is Obesity Your Fault?
Obesity is not a personal failure. It has many causes, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, sleep issues, stress, and the constant availability of high-calorie foods. Blaming yourself only adds emotional burden. Recognising the complexity of obesity is the first step toward building a healthier and more supportive relationship with yourself.
