Over the course of this surreal year, I experienced both significant weight gain and weight loss. Just couldn’t help but notice the different reactions I’ve had from friends, family and colleagues to weight gain vs. loss.
When the lockdowns first happened earlier this year, all the gyms closed and I started working from home 100%. Before that I was maintaining at 132lb for years which I was very happy with.
But with COVID, I stopped exercising and all other physical activity also plummeted. I started binging out of sheer boredom. In 4 weeks I put on 11 lbs (!!!)
My clothes stopped fitting and that was my wake up call to start my weight loss journey.
But during the time I was gaining that alarming amount of weight, I was actually being ENCOURAGED by my friends and family (with whom I live, that’s a norm where I’m from).
They bought and cooked me more food, egged me on when I ordered double portions. The general sentiment was that it was a good thing - my gaining weight and binge-eating were signs I was enjoying myself despite the pandemic.
People cheered me on saying curves looked better in clothes anyway, and that I should be excused for gaining weight this quickly because global pandemic, etc.
I started my weight loss journey in late-May, losing about 3-4 pounds a month. A very healthy pace, compared to the rate at which I gained the weight.
And can I just say - the reactions are completely different.
Everyone was suddenly “alarmed” at my weight loss. People sent me concerned DMs about every picture I posted.
All around me people were saying, “you’re not eating enough”, “you should stop now”, “this isn’t healthy”. Basically acting like losing the weight is a bad thing all round.
Just imagine the reverse - “you’re eating too much”, “you should stop gaining weight”. It would never be accepted.
Someone even diagnosed me with an eating disorder.
I’m just so amused because this is the healthiest I’ve ever been, even pre-COVID. My energy, stamina and athletic performance are at their peaks. In fact, when I gained the weight I was so lethargic and clearly in terrible shape.
I know it all comes from a place of love. Hence I’m not annoyed or upset, just amused at this double standard.
Anyone else have similar experiences? Could use some tips on how to respond to concerned loved ones.
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