General

Some are so good at weight loss that they go past optimal and into an eating disorder. It is easier to do than most imagine, though I grant you that it is a difficult idea from the perspective of those struggling with obesity. As such, to increase self-protection from eating disorders, before you start, agree with yourself, a person who loves you and your doctor, what the most healthy weight for you is - that is your new minimum. Then, as you reach it, you must realise that the loss phase is over and your new goal is maintenance. If learning how to eat more again is challenging, recall that this is a me vs. me battle that only you can win, though the emotional support of others is important for victory. Never ever fall into your weight being a battle between you and another person, keep it simple, it is about you and proper nutrition. In my personal experience, I found that keeping the diet the same yet adding in higher calorie foods was successful. Too much change can be counter productive. Add in things that you could remove if you wanted to. That way you stay in control and keep a healthy body weight. You are supposed to have an arse and a bit of tum, that's natural and good. What would you think of an overly skinny horse? You'd feed them more, right? Do the same for yourself. In my way of thought, if I am overweight then snacks are "off limits," if I am underweight then snacks are "limits off." It is a simple switch, controllable and it keeps me healthy. In terms of body weight, as in most areas of life, you are aiming for the middle of a spectrum and not the extreme ends. Hugs x

General

Bigorexia - the wave of young men damaging their bodies with steriods to gain big muscles - is founded on a misconception. If they are a guy who wants to attract gals, here's the thing. I say this as a straight biological female. Women, beyond a sense of averageness, don't care what their man looks like. They don't. Once a guy is somewhat average other factors take over. They are looking for a great partner who would make a great father. It's biologically hardwired. Women don't chose mates based on looks. By all means, be healthy, do a sport or whatever makes you feel good... but a lot of women actually don't like big muscles in real life. That's what's real.