How to Respond to Unsolicited Comments About Your Body, Weight, or Eating Habits.
Unsolicited comments about your body, weight, or eating habits can catch you off guard and sting more than one might expect. Comments like this can leave you feeling self-conscious, frustrated, or even questioning your own choices. If you’ve ever walked away from a conversation replaying someone’s words in your head, you’re definitely not alone. It’s okay to feel hurt or annoyed, and it’s important to know that you have every right to set boundaries that protect your well-being.
Here’s how to handle some common unsolicited comments with confidence and grace.
1. “You’re looking fuller.”
This can feel like a backhanded compliment, leaving you wondering if it was meant as an observation or criticism.
How to respond:
“I’m comfortable with how I look, thanks.”
“I don’t focus on my appearance much these days - there’s more to me than that.”
“I’d prefer if we didn’t comment on bodies. How have you been, though?”
2. “Are you really going to eat all of that?”
This can make you feel judged or self-conscious about your appetite or food choices.
How to respond:
“Yep, I sure am hungry and looking forward to enjoying it.”
“I listen to my body’s needs, and this is what it wants today.”
“I don’t worry about portions - I just eat what feels right for me.”
3. “You should try this new diet I’m on.”
Hearing unsolicited diet advice can be frustrating, especially if you’re working on having a healthier relationship with food.
How to respond:
“I’m happy with the way I’m eating now, but thanks for thinking of me.”
“I’m focusing on a balanced approach that works for me.”
“I’m not interested in dieting, but I hope it’s working out well for you.”
4. “You’ve lost weight: you look way better!”
While intended as a compliment, this can reinforce the idea that weight loss makes us more appealing, which isn’t necessarily true.
How to respond:
“I feel good: I prefer to focus on other things outside of my weight.”
“I have no idea, I try not to focus on weight but I appreciate your kindness.”
“I’m trying to focus on how I feel rather than how I look.”
5. “Are you sure you want to eat that?”
This can make you feel judged or second-guess your choices.
How to respond:
“Yep, I’m sure! I eat what I enjoy without overthinking it.”
“I trust my body to tell me what it needs: I sure as hell will be eating this.”
“I don’t follow strict rules about food, so I’m happy with my choice.”
6. “You look tired… have you gained weight?”
This comment is layered with judgment and can be particularly hurtful.
How to respond:
“I’d prefer not to discuss my appearance.”
“I’m feeling fine, but thanks for your concern.”
“I don’t think my weight is relevant. How have you been?”
7. “I wish I had your discipline to eat less.”
This can feel like a passive comment on your eating habits or body size.
How to respond:
“I just listen to my body’s needs, no discipline involved.”
“I don’t really see food that way. I just eat what feels good.”
“Everyone’s needs are different. I focus on what works for me.”
8. “You’re so thin; do you even eat?”
Comments on being ‘too thin’ can be just as intrusive as comments on weight gain.
How to respond:
“I eat what my body needs, just like everyone else.”
“I don’t really think about it that way, but thanks for your concern.”
“I’d rather not discuss my body. What’s on for the weekend?”
9. “That outfit would look better if you lost a few kgs.”
This is not only unsolicited but also incredibly insensitive.
How to respond:
“I wear what I feel good in, and that’s enough for me.”
“I’m comfortable as I am, but thanks for sharing your opinion.”
“I don’t dress to meet others’ expectations - I wear what I love.”
10. “Skipping dessert? Are you on a diet?”
This can create pressure to explain your choices, even when they’re personal.
How to respond:
“Nope, just not feeling it today.”
“I eat what I feel like, and today I’m good without dessert.”
“I’m just listening to what my body wants right now.”
Final Thoughts:
Remember, you don’t owe anyone an explanation about your body, weight, or eating habits. It’s perfectly okay to set boundaries and redirect the conversation. Practicing these responses can help you feel more confident the next time someone makes an unsolicited comment.
Further Reading and Resources:
Eating Disorder Recovery Centre: Tips for Navigating Body Comments & Diet
Central Coast Treatment Centre: 30 Ways to Respond to Diet Talk
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