Are thin people more healthy?

Being thin or fat varies with culture, social class, history, genetics, individual metabolism and many other factors. Back in earlier centuries, women were portrayed in classic paintings as having 'softer' looks with plump bodies. But this has obviously changed quite dramatically today, as even the slightest hint of 'fat' is discouraged. One can see this in nearly every fashion ad or commercial. Where as in some countries, the government has put a ban on anorexic models for catwalk. In remote areas like Tibet, body size is not an important consideration where as some countries might even find a "skinny" woman to be unhealthy and repulsive. It is just a gross generalization like anything else.

High blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, some types of cancer, joint problems, and respiratory disorders are a few lifestyle disorders associated with overweight. However, being thin on the other hand also has some health issues like anorexia nervosa, bullaemia, hormonal disorders etc.

Our genetic makeup and certain metabolic disorders may predispose to obesity. Recognizing this, one can take precautions and monitor certain lifestyle habits including intake of certain type of foods, overall calorie intake, timely eating supplemented by moderate exercise program.

In presence of metabolic disorders it is also advisable to seek professional help to correct underlying hormonal imbalance and join a weight loss program under qualified physician guidance. At the same time people who are extremely thin and unable to gain satisfactory weight should also seek medical professional help to find out any underlying metabolic disorder. In both the situations, professional counseling could be of great help.

In my opinion, being healthy is not relevant to being thin or fat. It is a general condition of a person’s mind, body and spirit, usually meaning to be free from illness, injury or pain. It is how agile, active and stress free you are that matters for good health. It doesn’t matter how thin or fat you are if you destroy your body with drugs, alcohol, poor diet, lack of exercise, stress etc.
Thus, weight and appearance are important but the focus should be shifted to healthy lifestyle habits.