Snarky comments about weight -- would you respond?

[PamNY]

I've worked very hard to get where I'm at and yes I talk about what I eat and how much I work out in front of heavier people. It's a big part of my life. And I'm really proud of what I've accomplished. I'm not going to monitor my conversation about myself because it might affect someone else's self image.Veronica

Talking about what you eat and how much you work out is entirely different from making snarky comments. Labeling oneself a "cow" is, at best, immature.

One of my closest friends is very heavy and weight is a life-long struggle for her. Of all my friends, she is the most supportive of my beginning biking. She celebrates every muscle fiber I grow, and reminds me (daily, if needed) to compare myself only with myself and not with others. We both climb stairs; I do 44 flights and she does three. We talk endlessly and cheerfully about this and encourage each other a lot.

Sensible conversation about health, nutrition and physical activity is not the topic I introduced. I do indeed talk to my heavy friend about nutrition and exercise; I don't call her and say "Gag! I feel like a lazy worthless blimp!" Of course, I hope I wouldn't say that to anyone.

Pam