How do I know whether its my body image perception or if someone is actually fat?

Anonymous #1

Like how do I distinguish between the two?

Reply 1

DataVenia

Volunteer Team, Clearing and Applications Advisor

Original post by Anonymous

Like how do I distinguish between the two?

Have you tried calculating your Body Mass Index (e.g. using this calculator on the NHS web site) to see if it's says you're a healthy weight?

Note that BMI is a fairly crude measure, but it's better than nothing.

Reply 2

Anonymous #1

Original post by DataVenia

Have you tried calculating your Body Mass Index (e.g. using this calculator on the NHS web site) to see if it's says you're a healthy weight?
Note that BMI is a fairly crude measure, but it's better than nothing.

BMi is not an accurate measure for me as my BMI is 14.7 due to my birth defect but I also have anorexia nervosa too. I found I don't really have the anorexic thoughts so much now but my body can't handle weight due to my birth defect.

Reply 3

Surnia

Life & Style Forum Helper

Original post by Anonymous

See your GP and get professional medical help.

Reply 4

threeportdrift

Careers Forum Helper

Original post by Anonymous

Like how do I distinguish between the two?

There is no difference between the two. "is actually fat" is a perception. All humans have fat cells in them, and different people have different amounts of fat for a very wide range of genetic, medical, cultural and social reasons. Being 'too fat' is a perception in every case, although it might be attached to something evidence-based like the increased risk of diabetes or heart attack.