How to Respond to Body Comments (Without Freezing Up)

We’ve all been there. You’re catching up with a friend, sitting down at a family gathering, or just minding your own business when—bam—someone makes a comment about your body.

“Wow, you’ve lost weight! You look amazing!”
“Are you eating enough?”
“You’ve really filled out!”

Even if it’s meant as a compliment, body comments can still feel uncomfortable, intrusive, or downright frustrating. So, how do you respond? Do you call them out, educate them, or just let it go? Here are a few options for handing these comments in a way that feels right for you.

Step 1: Consider the Person and Your Relationship

Not all body comments are created equal. A well-meaning, but misguided remark from your grandma is different from a backhanded comment from a coworker. Before reacting, ask yourself:

• Who is this person to me?
• Are they coming from a place of care or just being nosy?
• Do I have the energy to engage, or would I rather shut it down?

Your response should reflect your boundaries, emotional capacity, and relationship with the person.

Step 2: Identify Your Desired Outcome

Why do you feel the need to respond? What do you want to get out of the conversation?

• Do you want to shut it down and move on or have a conversation?
• Do you want them to stop making comments in the future?
• Do you want to educate them on the harm of weight stigma?

There is no right or wrong answer here—just what feels best for you.

Step 3: Choose Your Response Style

Once you’ve decided whether you want to engage, here are a few ways you can respond:

The Gentle Approach

If you want to set a boundary without confrontation:

• “I’d prefer if we didn’t talk about my body.”
• “I know you mean well, but body comments make me uncomfortable.”
• “I’m actually struggling with my health right now, and I’d rather not talk about my weight.”

The Direct Approach

If you want to be clear and to the point:

• “Please don’t comment on my body.”
• “I don’t see weight loss as an accomplishment.”
• “I don’t think you meant to offend, but that comment was hurtful.”

The Body Comment Rebel Approach

If you want to push back and make them think:

• “Wow, that’s an interesting thing to say out loud.”
• “Was that supposed to be a compliment?”
• “Why do you feel the need to comment on my body?”

Step 4: Remember, You Don’t Owe Anyone an Explanation

You don’t have to justify your body, your weight, or your health to anyone. If you don’t want to engage at all, you can:

✔ Ignore the comment and change the subject
✔ Smile and walk away
✔ Redirect the conversation with “Anyway, how have you been?”

If you do have the energy to open a conversation, you might say:

“Would you be open to hearing how I feel about body comments?”

Some people will be receptive. Others won’t. You’re not responsible for changing their views—only for protecting your peace.

Final Thoughts on Body Comments

Body comments can be frustrating, exhausting, and even triggering. But you have the right to set boundaries and respond in a way that aligns with your needs. Whether you shut it down, educate, or let it roll off your back, the choice is yours.

At the end of the day, your body is nobody else’s business. 💛

For support with negative thoughts about your own body or navigating relationships in which weight and health are seen differently, please reach out. I offer individual therapy (both in-person and telehealth) for adult women looking to find peace with food, fitness, and their body.