Weight loss is a subject of much debate, specially in the U.S., where younger generation is turning to anorexia, bulimia, and other eat disorders. While weight loss in itself is not a bad thing, it can also result into some nasty after effects and can even cause death. Knowing when you need to lose weight and when you do not is important in the fight against both your personal poor health and the terrible disease that are sweeping across the United States.

You can know that losing weight is often a very personal option. However, you can safely presume that excess weight of 20 pounds and more needs to be brought down. Look at the recommended weight for someone of your size as a start. However, because everyone has different physique, because of fat and muscle ratio to body weight, you should consult your doctor if you want to lose weight. A doctor can confirm this or put your mind to rest by telling you that your weight is normal. This is the best way to make sure that you are being healthy.

There are also times, however, when you definitely do not need to lose weight. First, if you are not as thin as your favorite actor or model, that does not mean you need to lose weight. Often, celebrity photos are edited to sharpen the visible features and they have personal trainers that work with them for hours every day in order to help them stay in shape. If your body weight is normal, you do not need to lose weight, even if you are a pants size bigger than your ideal celebrity.

Your also do not need to lose weight just because you gain it. People gain weight for a number of reasons, and this is especially common during puberty and for the few years after. If you gain weight check out the rest of your body—are you going through a growth spurt in height as well? Also, don’t worry about gaining weight when you are lifting at the gym. As you tone your muscles, you will look better, but because muscles are heavier than fat, you may actually gain weight.

Lastly, you do not need to lose weight simply because someone else makes a rude comment about your looks. People do pass nasty remarks, but body appearance changes from person to person. If you are happy with your weight or it matches your age and height profile, then you should simply ignore such comments because you actually do need to lose weight. Be positive about life and ensure that you take a healthy diet and you can forget about losing weight.

You can get more tips on weight loss here -- tips for rapid weight loss and 3 weight loss tips.