We are such an anti-fat society, it’s ridiculous.  We are so scared of being considered fat that we automatically think all fat is bad- when in reality, fat can be good.

We need fat on our bodies- it’s necessary so we can store fat soluble vitamins, like vitamin A, D, E and K and forms of fat, like fatty acids, are one of the building blocks of the cell membranes which surround every cell in the body. The way the cell responds to hormones, participates in the supply of nutrients and disposal of waste is dependent upon the health and integrity of these cell membranes.  Fat also helps to keep your skin watertight and moist, and assists your nerves in transmission of signals. Fat is also critical for various functions regulating inflammation, blood pressure, and clotting.

Remember what happens when men try to tell us we should all look like runway models.

There are some advantages to having a surplus of body fat, or in other words, being overweight. Not obese, mind you, but being above the chart norms used to classify healthy weights. Most women are above these numbers, and are still quite healthy.

A Healthier Heart

According to the British Medical Journal, women with larger thighs have a lower risk of heart disease and early death. Women with pin-thin legs faced the greatest chance of developing heart disease. Phew- I thought they were just to fill out a great pair of jeans.

Glowing Skin

Recent studies have found that between two sisters, the one with the higher BMI was judged to have a more youthful look. A sunken face can add years, so carrying an extra few pounds will help create a more youthful appearance- plus a fuller face wrinkles less.

Live Longer than Anyone Else

A Kaiser Permanente report found that gaining a few extra pounds can add years to life, while a federal study shows that overweight people actually outlive the obese, the underweight, and people at normal weight. Extra pounds protect against conditions that lead to premature death. It’s thought that fat stores can be used to help the body stay strong during illness and aid in recovery.
Increased Fertility

A London study found underweight women were 72 percent more likely to miscarry, while those women who carried a few extra pounds proved to have the opposite effect on their pregnancy.

Stronger Bones

Extra weight on your frame can ward off osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercises are the best way to ward off the disease, and carrying a few extra pounds puts constant stress on your skeleton. Osteoporosis is less common in overweight women than thin women.