This post is going to be a bit different from my usual topics, like recipes or natural living tips. Lately, I’ve noticed a trend that has been bothering me, so I felt the need to talk about it. Let’s get into something personal today.
There’s a lot of good stuff happening in the health, paleo, and primal movements, but I’m worried about the obsession with women having six-pack abs and extremely low body fat. While some women naturally have this body type or choose to work towards it, the pressure that all women should aspire to this standard is troubling.
Many health and paleo sites are dominated by male perspectives, focusing on improving the male physique. However, what’s considered healthy for men, like low body fat and visible abs, isn’t necessarily healthy for women. Achieving these goals often requires intense dedication and can lead to health issues like disrupted menstrual cycles, which indicate compromised health in women. I’ve seen women go to extremes to achieve a certain look, risking their well-being.
Society often pushes the idea of being thin, which isn’t always healthy. It’s important to eat nutrient-rich foods and maintain a balanced weight, but the low body fat levels seen in models aren’t achievable or healthy for many women, especially during childbearing years. Most emails I receive about health struggles are from women, and many are related to fertility or weight issues. Often, these women are close to their ideal weight but feel pressured to be thinner.
The truth is, our bodies have a natural weight they want to maintain. It’s normal and healthy for women to have curves. I can lift heavy weights and stay active, but I’m okay with my body changing after having kids, even if I won’t fit into a size two jeans again.
Historically, a healthy waist-to-hip ratio was more valued than being thin. Studies show this ratio is associated with better health outcomes than just focusing on weight or BMI. Women often find their bodies naturally develop more curves on a higher-fat, real food diet, which can actually be healthier.
Every day, many women worry about losing a few extra pounds. This constant stress is unhealthy. Instead of fixating on appearance, let’s focus on eating more nutritious foods and being active for health rather than just weight loss.
I’ve personally come to terms with my body after having four kids. My physique has changed, but for me, it’s worth every stretch mark and change to have healthy kids. Today, I have better overall health, hair, and skin than I did during my high school years of poor eating habits.
Let’s redefine what’s “normal” for women’s bodies. Traditionally beautiful figures, like those of Marilyn Monroe, were once admired and should be celebrated again. I’m not saying we should abandon healthy eating and exercise, but maybe we should rethink what we consider ideal and find beauty at a healthy size, not just at a size two.
Instead of endless cardio, lift weights to strengthen bones and muscles, which helps create a healthy waist-to-hip ratio. Abandon low-fat diets and eat for nourishment with healthy proteins and fats.
I’m not promoting a specific body type; I’m suggesting we prioritize health over arbitrary weight numbers. Let’s nourish our bodies with real food and focus on wellness rather than calorie cutting. While some women are naturally slender, and that’s great for them, this isn’t about body type shaming.
To sum it up: Focus on eating a healthy, nutrient-dense diet and listen to your hunger cues. Don’t obsess over the scale. Exercise for health and strength, not just six-pack abs. Appreciate yourself as you are before trying to be someone else. Realize women might struggle more than men to maintain low body fat, and that’s okay.
If you’re aiming to improve your physique, focus on weight training exercises like deadlifts and squats to tone your body without adding bulk. Eat a balanced diet high in Omega-3s and get plenty of sleep to manage stress.
Now, let’s talk—are you happy with your body or have you noticed any changes after adopting a healthier lifestyle? Feel free to share your experiences below!
