The subject of weight loss is a tricky subject in America. Self-images get distorted by what we see in the media, especially on TV and in the movies. So many young girls (and boys, too) think they are fat, when they are actually underweight and become anorexic or bulimic, or have other eating disorders.

For many losing weight is a good way to improve one’s overall health and maybe necessary for one’s survival. But for those whose concept of their bodies are off kilter, trying to lose weight can become a horrible nightmare that can lead to one’s death.

Figuring out when you need to lose weight and when you do not is an important step in taking control over your health care. This is your body and reaching that balance point of your optimum weight can add years to life.

So should you be taking off some pounds? While this depends upon your personal judgment, in general, if you are more than 20 pounds overweight, losing those pounds can improve your health.

The first thing to do is to look-up the recommended weight for someone of your size and age. Next take into consideration that everyone’s body is different. Your ratio of fat to muscle will be different than someone else’s. And being a little heavier maybe just right for you. If you are an athlete, for example, than those “extra pounds” may be all muscle that you need for your work.

Check with your doctor if you feel like your weight is out of balance. A doctor can tell if your weight is normal or not. And it maybe time to lose some weight.

There are people, however, who definitely do not need to lose weight. Hey, if you aren’t as thin as your favorite actor or model, that doesn’t mean you need to lose weight. Here is a little behind the scenes secret: Models and actresses are airbrushed in photos to look more toned. They wear clothes that enhance their shape. And they are often forced, for their jobs, to weigh less than is healthy for them.

If your body weight is normal, you do not need to lose weight, even if your pants are a size bigger than the celebrity of the month.

There are also periods in your life when it is natural to be gaining weight. This is especially common during puberty and for the first few years into your early twenties. If you are gaining weight, check out the rest of your body - are you going through a growth spurt in height as well?

If you have started working out, you may also be gaining weight, at first. As you tone your muscles, you will look better, but may weigh more. That is because muscles are heavier than fat. More muscles and less fat is a good thing.

Finally don’t base your weight loss or gain decisions simply because someone else makes a rude comment about your looks. People are cruel. Remember that everyone has a different body make up. If you are happy with your weight and it is within the normal range for someone of your age and height, chances are that the rude comment is stemming from other issues, not because you actually need to lose weight.

Be happy with yourself and eat a healthy diet. There is an optimum weight for you, but you get to decide what it is and whether losing weight is the right thing to do.