Britney Spears Opens Up About Weight Loss

Britney Spears has been in the news recently for being honest, and this weekend was no exception—she posted a message about her fluctuating weight. It started a healthy debate about what represents healthy weight loss. "It's really weird whenever I try to slim down it usually starts with my legs first … then my stomach … then my face … and that's when I know I've actually lost weight !!!!" Spears began in the post's caption. Read on to see what Britney posted, the fan reaction and how you can lose wight safely and effectively—and to get fit yourself, don't miss the essential tips in: 30 Best-Ever Celebrity Bikini Photos!

"It's really weird whenever I try to slim down it usually starts with my legs first … then my stomach … then my face … and that's when I know I've actually lost weight !!!!" she wrote. "When you swipe to the second pic"—one of two she shared—"you can actually really see how slim my face is but I'm not so sure I like it." She added a shrug emoji. "In the old days when women were heavier they were considered more attractive to men because it was a sign of wealth !!!! I have a couple of throwback dances from this summer where I looked heavier but it's weird cause I think I was happier !!!! Oh well … sorry for my shallow talk of weight … but it is what it is you know !!!! GOD BLESS YOU ALL !!!!!" Keep reading for the reaction and how to lose weight safe.

Britney's message received 1.3 million likes. Among the most liked comments: 

• Never need to apologize to anyone ever… It's the other way around
• Gorgeous queen no matter your size! We love you
• Size don't matter. Working what you got and looking comfortable doing it is what matters.
• Girl you're perfect just the way you are! What ever weight and shape makes YOU feel the best, YOU feel the most confident, BE THAT!
• It's the media and it's manipulation of body image and what's sexy, or who is "fat"
• You do you girl! what ever makes you feel good gives you the most confidence

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"It's natural for anyone trying to lose weight to want to lose it very quickly. But people who lose weight gradually and steadily (about 1 to 2 pounds per week) are more successful at keeping weight off. Healthy weight loss isn't just about a 'diet' or 'program.' It's about an ongoing lifestyle that includes long-term changes in daily eating and exercise habits," says the CDC. "Making the decision to lose weight, change your lifestyle, and become healthier is a big step to take. Start simply by making a commitment to yourself. Many people find it helpful to sign a written contract committing to the process. This contract may include things like the amount of weight you want to lose, the date you'd like to lose the weight by, the dietary changes you'll make to establish healthy eating habits, and a plan for getting regular physical activity."

"Consider talking to your health care provider. He or she can evaluate your height, weight, and explore other weight-related risk factors you may have. Ask for a follow-up appointment to monitor changes in your weight or any related health conditions," says the CDC.

"Set some short-term goals and reward your efforts along the way," says the CDC. "If your long-term goal is to lose 40 pounds and to control your high blood pressure, some short-term eating and physical activity goals might be to start eating breakfast, taking a 15 minute walk in the evenings, or having a salad or vegetable with supper. Focus on two or three goals at a time. Great, effective goals are —

• Specific
• Realistic
• Forgiving (less than perfect)."