Things I'd Tell My Teenage Self!

[@phyllisquinlan]

I am a nurse at a Children's Medical Center with an eating disorder clinic. Thank you. I'm sharing this everywhere. Blessings

[@ElizabethKanas]

How lovely of you!

[@Jess-3]

Please pass this on, this needs to be educated to other people who have suffered to help the cycle stop❤️

[@celine1fan]

What a glowing compliment❣️

[@caviaranddirt1260]

💖 gone through (anorexia) the same😢🙁😢🙁. So happy we are smarter now💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖

[@AnnaSaccone]

Awww, that means so much to me, thank you so much Phyllis! ❤️

[@Sazzay96]

I cant express how amazing this is!! Heres another example of Health at Every Size Me, 60Kg, BMI of 23, Size 8 (Considered 'healthy'..)= Tired, low iron, low B12, broke 3 bones, regular stress injuries at training, depressed, hair fell out, 90minutes of intense exercise daily, no period for 3 years, struggled at Me 77kg, Size 10/12 (Considered 'obese' on the BMI scale) -have run 5 full marathons with no injuries - perfect blood tests every time - happy, not tired, have so much energy - increased my uni marks enough to graduate with first class honours and at the top of my degree - period comes every month - hair grows super fast - exercise 30 minutes a day for fun.

[@juliephillips5364]

You go girl you do you

[@bethmcgrath9376]

Are you my twin? This is literally my actual situation and recovery exactly! Also my mums a doctor has been for 35 years and she hates having to ‘diagnose’ people with the BMI scale bc it’s literally so outdated and inaccurate and people who are underweight with bad bloods, no periods, low iron etc. come up as healthy as a result and people who could have literally 1% body fat(not that this matters but for the analogy I’ll use it) and weigh a ‘heavy’ weight bc they’re a muscle weapon like athletes and such come up as obese despite having a body that functions and super healthy cardiovascular systems bc they actually have the energy to do things. Another good example is the health requirements for the navy and military are all non negotiable except BMI bc it’s so inaccurate. Xx

[@Sazzay96]

Beth McGrath exactly! I am in the medical field myself and whilst BMI does have some useful purposes, there are so many situations where it causes more harm than good.

[@AnnaSaccone]

Exactly 🙌🏼 You hit the nail on the head! It's also important to note that I personally was never classed as "underweight" according to BMI even though my body was severely malnourished, depleted and I was starving! Everyone is different and "health" cannot be measured on a BMI scale for every person.

[@Heart1D]

That's amazing! Good for you! It is ridiculous that a healthy size 10/12 is considered obese I think BMI is an outdated and completely inaccurate measure of health

[@Moncix28]

This should be trending. This information should be shared everywhere. This is GOLD information that girls/women should be aware all across the world. Thank you Anna ❤

[@RikoScouse]

I had to pause in the middle because I just started to cry. I started crying happy tears because I felt a relief that I've never felt before!! I have massive issues with my weight and body and hearing what you've said, all the good advice, just made me feel like a weight was lifted off of my shoulders. Thank you!! Thank you so much!! 💖💖

[@86Franny]

I cried happy tears while reading your comment This is so true. I feel the same!

[@BootsieDior74]

You’re beautiful the way you are! 💘

[@AnnaSaccone]

😭 I'm so glad this helped! Sending so much love your way! ❤️❤️❤️

[@ashleychavez3768]

It’s so refreshing to have someone like our KZbin older sister to share their journey and experiences with us! Thank you Anna!!

[@AnnaSaccone]

Thank you so much! 🥰

[@katielivermore4834]

I requested this video and I am so glad that I did. As a 13 year old girl, I have written these tips down and stored them in my brain. Thank you so much for everything you have done and will continue to do. Lots of love 💖💖

[@charliescott768]

The main thing I wish I had known at 13 and hope other young people know is that the parts of your body that you looked at in the mirror and don't like won't be looked at by others in the same way in fact most people will focus on you as a whole and won't concentrate on any singular part of you. I would have been a lot less self conscious if I had known that. 💕

[@CathyMiller0711]

If you can keep these tips in focus for yourself and strive to follow them, you will save yourself so much pain and struggle. Good for you for writing them down at 13! You go, girl!

[@clareriley9049]

@@charliescott768 Wise advice. I'd also say that it is easy to think that everyone else is having a wonderful/easy time, and in most cases they have the same worries and concerns and are not as confident as they appear.

[@katielivermore4834]

@@CathyMiller0711 Thank you so much 💖

[@katielivermore4834]

@@charliescott768 Thanks for your advice x

[@carnold158]

This is brilliant! Would be great to see "Things I'd Tell Myself As A First Time Mum"

[@helenjlee1]

Anna you have no idea how much this helped me. I'm almost 20 and I just realized how harshly I was criticizing myself all these years. This is honestly such genuine content that I needed to hear ❤️

[@jenniferbecker2665]

I'm 33 and grew up around the same time as you did. And I've had many struggles you had. My body obsession started at 12 and I blamed everything on society I had not thought about the fact my body was also changing. I am finally at the point in my life to where I want to change my mental and physically health. My highest weight was 160 and lowest was 105 and I'm 5'4. Both weights I was miserable. I know I've gained a bit of weight from my 105 and I am working to be okay with this along with eating only when I'm hungry and the things my body could benefit from. And exercise is a major plus. I have to also learn to have a healthy relationship with working out for I used that to be super thin and became obsessed with working out. Thank you again for this wonderful video and sharing your journey.. It helps to know we're not alone. :)

[@hayleej272]

I genuinely don’t think i would have recovered from my eating disorder without you, Anna. Thank you so much for speaking out, for sharing such important advice and encouraging self love. My heart is so happy that so many young people will get to see this video ☺️

[@AnnaSaccone]

Thank you so much, that means a lot to me! 🥰❤️

[@netballchick101]

This might sound cringy but Anna is an inspiration. For recovery and for being an overall genuine & honest person. Also, family goals!

[@emilyoneill4630]

This felt so amazing to hear. My sister is waiting for a bed in hospital due to an eating disorder, and it just felt like a huge weight lifted off of my chest to hear this from someone who now has a happy healthy family. So thank you for giving me faith that it can only go up from here

[@Milla_99]

Hey Anna, it was only a few weeks ago when I finished 14 weeks of hospital stay at a specialized clinic for Anorexia. It is unbelievable to realize that I lost such much valuable time, 9 years exactly, because of an ED. I wish there would have been someone like you back than who would have told me to stop and overthing my actions. Now that I know how to handle critical situations, I am the happiest I've ever been. And seeing your video and realizing that it is possible to recover just like you did gives me so much hope every day and the will to continue this fight ☺️ Thanks Anna, I truly look up to you 🧡

[@bubyx2385]

❤️❤️

[@AnnaSaccone]

Thank you so much! ❤️ I'm so pleased to hear you are feeling better! ❤️

[@alexclaire96]

This is really going to help a teenage girl somewhere,I wish there was a video like this when I was a teenager! This was so positive and i love it! 💓

[@charmepraisner6964]

Loved this ❤️ I stopped using scales over a year ago, I found that whenever I felt my healthiest the scales would show a higher number than I thought and I would get so down, I decided then and there I would never weigh myself again because a number doesn’t define me it’s about how I feel inside ❤️

[@JustJosh]

To the person who is reading this: You're amazing, stay safe, everything always works out in the end and have a great rest of the day/night! From a small KZbinr Vlogger trying to spread positivity!

[@micharellano67]

I love this so much! I'm 40 and raising 2 girls that are 10 and 6 with COMPLETELY different body types. I try my best to talk about food in a positive way to the girls and not be afraid/ashamed for them to see me naked or in a swimsuit. I want them to see different bodies and know that they are ALL ok. It is so hard for me to give myself grace but I can easily do it for them. I'm so happy things have started to changed for the good in moving towards a body positive world! XOXO

[@readingandrambles]

I absolutely love this video! As someone who has struggled with weight my entire adult life, this has been so helpful. You are such a positive, beautiful person and I enjoy your videos so much. Thank you for sharing.

[@elizabethmarquez1511]

Congratulations on your recovery Anna. I've only started working on recovery recently and as I'm sure you know, every day is different. I've been following you since around 2014 (I was 14), and even now at 20, you've always been an excellent role model. You're an inspiration to many and have created such a lovely community full of people who support you and your family x

[@leona7997]

this is so beautiful anna 💖 this is gonna help so many people! "don't worry about them because no one's looking at them, because they're too busy looking at themselves" and the "not everything we hear or think is true" one...wow. this is such a great point and something i need to think about

[@gloriasorsoli6026]

You spoke the absolute truth! As a 30 years old I struggled so much with many things you mentioned and even though i worked on myself and my thoughts to the point where I can say I have a healthier relationship with my body, I still find a reminder like this video so helpful. Thanks soooo much, I hope many young girls will listen to your words, believe them and keep them in their heart. Grazie!

[@itsemxoxo]

Can’t even express how much I loved this, it came at exactly the right time 💔 i can’t thank you enough Anna for always doing everything you can to help and be there for others. You are amazing and I hope you know that. You’re the mum figure in my life so hearing this from you meant so so much to me, since I’ve been struggling I’ve had no-one to tell me these things, so hearing them from you meant the world. I love you so much and know that we’re always here for you as much as you are for us!💖

[@chantellehsmfand8554]

It's Emily Rose I agree Anna is an amazing person and mum to four gorgeous children xx

[@AnnaSaccone]

Aww thank you so much! 🥰❤️ I'm so glad I could help xxx

[@chantellehsmfand8554]

That's ok x

[@katherinecollins4685]

Such a lovely idea for a vlog, Anna’s honesty is super inspiring. So glad she did this, will be something all her kids can watch when they grow up

[@scrumps101]

This was remarkably well done. This video should be shown to every junior high school student and again in high school as a reminder. I never struggled with eating disorders but like every girl, I struggled with body image. I had what was considered the “ideal” body type yet because society pushes such flawlessness in the media I felt I could never measure up. If I’d heard even half of the topics you discussed I’m certain it would have helped my self esteem and confidence. Every mom of preteen and teen girls especially might consider watching this with their daughters.

[@jamiemoreno7765]

Anna, you've evolved so much this past year. Not just in the vlogs you post directly related to weight loss/gain. You carry yourself with exceptional confidence, while emitting genuine happiness and self-worth. Your new self (post-preggo/breastfeeding) is something all should aspire to. You've truly come into your own, embracing things in life that matter most. I parallel the same journey as you with an adolescence/early adulthood struggling with body image. I'm also post preggo/breastfeeding and settling hormonally, emotionally and physically into my new me. I'm embracing it too. Love it!! Your take on life is empowering and aspiring. Thank you for sharing your journey!

[@lilypene020708]

Anna, thank you so much. I needed to here this. I'm in my 20s now and with everyone around me dieting, I use to hate my body. During Covid I realized how important excercise is for my mental state! And now I'm at a place where I'm happy with my body but hearing these points made me realize that I never really should have worried. Thank you! Love you and your words of wisdom!❤

[@clareriley9049]

You're very articulate Anna. I've dealt with and read about these issues for decades, and the points you make are very valid, particularly that feelings aren't facts, and that people's opinions of you are really more to do with them and their 'stuff' rather than you, and you shouldn't carry them with you like a burden. And you're granny was spot on too, people are usually more worried about themselves than you, so don't limit yourself based on what others may think, because they probably aren't thinking about you at all!

[@shelby8738]

Thank you so much Anna. These are all tips I’ve slowly began to learn as I lacked a motherly figure in my life growing up. Your children are so lucky to have a mom like you

[@molllyhepburn]

I don’t comment on videos often but I just wanted to tell you how happy I am that you are back. My mum passed away 7 months ago and I’m only 18. It’s so hard to be positive a lot of the time but I find your videos so comforting and uplifting. You have such a positive and calming outlook and you are my go-to on KZbin especially when I’m feeling particularly stressed or sad. You have inspired me to keep going and shown me that, as hard as it is, life can still be worth living even after losing a parent. I’ve been rewatching your old videos over and over again and I’ve missed you so much. So I just want to say thank you. You honestly have no idea how much you’ve helped me. I also struggle with my body image and overall self confidence so I love these type of videos too. Please keep doing what you’re doing and never stop!! Sending lots of love🤍

[@emmaleadora]

Thank you so much Anna. Your content about body image, your ED, your recovery journey, and body confidence is always so helpful and meaningful to me. I am on my own journey of recovery from negative body image/ disordered eating right now and your content over the years- and especially recently- is always so helpful and encouraging. THANK YOU!

[@bethhughes6934]

This is the type of video and attitude all children need to be taught from a young age. I really admire you for your growth as a person and how you explain things in a way which is understandable and inspirational x

[@ellaevans6483]

all i can say is THANK YOU! this has came at such a good time for me as i am a teenage girl currently struggling with things such as body image, especially in this world nowadays. you are such an inspiration to so many young women! i cant wait to see how your children grow up to be with someone like you to look up to!💕

[@eleanorrose8941]

Anna, please please do more content around this subject. You are so inspiring and it is really helping others. You are helping me with my recovery and I can’t thank you enough!

[@lissethgonzales9052]

Watching this in tears as a 35 year old woman! These are things I needed to hear now!

[@gerdineverdoorn3405]

Same here, 39 years old and more than 20 years of struggling with eating issues. I also needed to hear.

[@TheAshley.Nicole]

Same here.

[@jessjones5983]

After watching this I have tears. I’ve felt so horrible about myself for years, been bullied since I was about 5/6 years old. I’ve tried every ‘diet’ possible and it’s so so difficult for me to speak out on this. Recently I’ve stopped the crazy dieting, the no eating diets. Just before lockdown I went out for a meal and ate in public and for the first time in over a year I wasn’t so concerned about what people around me on other tables thought. Things have gotten easier for me and I’ve managed to start losing weight a healthy way.. I have a long way to go but your video is something that’s going to help me through every day, thank you so so much Anna. You’re amazing😭❤️

[@cruella_91]

your doing amazing

[@jennifergibbs2409]

Amazing video thank you Anna. Absolute truth. I've had a massive 18 months, lost around 37kgs, and can't believe the mind game that is overcoming eating disorders. Now that I've been a healthy weight for 6 months I've had to relearn that the weight I wanted to be is actually much lower than actually suits my body. All my other problems are still here, and some are even worse than before, some are better, and who I am is still the same woman who likes to be alone, be creative and crafty, raise my children, and spend time with close friends. Learning to eat intuitively has taken 20 years, and it'll probably take another 20 to get it perfect, but I'm learning to enjoy the journey and remember there are some things more important than a bikini body. I've been following you for 7 years and it's been incredible to follow along your path. Lots of love!

[@kellyfarrell4971]

I've been in eating disorder therapy for 4 years now, I can hear your recovery journey and I'm so proud. It's so freeing and empowering. I have to say, actually I've said it numerous times over the vlogs but I'll say it again here.. I think you look healthier and more beautiful than ever before. Not that my opinion counts, but I promise I'm not approaching this from judgment, just love. I love you Anna. You and I have had babies and miscarriages together, and watching you grow over the years has been such an inspiration and most of all a gift, thank you.

[@ameliadarcy796]

Anna thank you so much. It’s so appreciated how you use your platform to share your story and help other girls. I’m 14 and I’ve been suffering from an eating sister for the last year. It’s so nice to have someone to hear from and hey advice from when you feel like you have no one to talk to.

[@leannestickells9673]

I have shared this in the hope that a dear friend can watch and see the damage she is doing to herself, doesn't matter how many times as friends we express our concern it falls on deaf ears and hopefully watching you speak openly and honestly it may help. Thank you xxx

[@anneh6342]

Well done! I am a Personal Trainer and have been in dance and fitness all my life. And, I will say, the struggle with body image and weight is real. You have broken it down in a way that is both relatable and relevant. Thank you for that...and for putting yourself out there! You Rock!

[@rosekodal]

What I think is so great is how happy you seem to be. I remember watching the vlogs from years ago, where you didn't seem very happy (of course I'm not one to conclude that, because we only see a certain amount of your day in the vlogs), but it's like now you've found an internal happiness, and it makes me so happy to see that. I love you and your family, and you (Anna) really help me when it comes to my relationship with food and body image. So thank you for that. And I'm really glad to see how much better you're doing in regards to the eating disorder ❤️

[@marapeer]

This video really got me thinking because recently you've been speaking more about your "past self" and it very much resonated with me. We all focus mostly on where we want to be or should be in terms of lifestyle, health, the foods we want to eat, the exercise we want to do etc. And waking up every day trying to get to that point. However nothing has touched me more and has resonated with me than you speaking about that teenage girl and how she felt about herself. I feel like for loads if not most of us, that is where a lot of patterns started that are very much disserving us today. Somewhere inside that teenage girl is still hurting because I felt her when you adressed her. Lets keep this conversation going and focus on that girl more. It might comfort her so that our current selves can be more at ease :)

[@Bllisa]

wow your last point really hit home. What people say or think is not "fact", it's just their interpretation, their vision, it doesn't mean it's true. Thank you for that Anna, as the people pleaser I was as a teenager, your words are really helpful.

[@karap4656]

I can’t express how much this video has touched me and is helping me to “wake up” to some of the irrational thinking and dangerous habits I have been performing. Today I am going to see a doctor for the first time after struggling in silence with extreme weight loss and disordered eating for a couple of years. Thank you for spreading awareness and bringing comfort to me and so many others who are on the journey to love themselves 💕 xxx

[@ralbynb158]

This video has completely made me think. I'm 27 now and from a very young age and especially around 15-18 I was extremely critical of myself and took a piece of information and spun it round in my mind to something negative against myself. I still find myself doing this now but not as regularly. This video has really made things into perspective in my mind it's a lot of food for thought. Thank you so much you Beautiful human

[@Footprinces]

Seriously Anna you need to write a book 📚 Pre teen girls need this!!!!💕💕💕

[@tahliamaddison3177]

The first video I found of yours was the one where you spoke about your ED, I remember crying and really looking up to you because I was really struggling in the midst of mine I thought I managed to sort it out myself and I did to a point, however this year has really impacted me and subsequently my ED again, this week I finally had the conversation with my therapist (I mentioned it in our first session 6 months ago, so it took a while but he was patient) I really want to say thank you for being so open and sharing your struggles, it helps more people than you probably realise, you have a beautiful soul Anna & I wish you the best x

[@aliazaluor2620]

Thank you Anna I'm 25 and so lucky to have you to look up to for the past nearly 10 years!! 💖💖🙏

[@ddcinders]

The most important thing as a mum I think is to live a long healthy life to see your family grow and to enjoy them. Diets and restrictions affect the immune system and health. Blue zone areas (those with the most centurians) eat more carbs than protein, enjoy deserts and drink alcohol (all in balance). They also live a stress free life (not worrying about diet and exercise). All that matters is enjoying your life and being happy in yourself. I am so happy that you are now happy in yourself! I think a very important life skill is learning to ignore the opinions of others. How boring if we were all the same! We need more body positivity in this world.

[@ekathleen7290]

I think being slim would made me feel incredible. I don’t want to think like this but I just can’t help imagining the feeling of buying any clothes, feeling more attractive

[@meredithmarshall4027]

The idea of attractiveness is subjective, and often physical attraction plays a very small role in relationships long term. I often use the example, a cute guy at a party walks up to you that is exactly your type and in your mind he is 10/10. But then he opens his mouth... Instantly that 10/10 becomes 1/10. Changing yourself physically does not change your mental insecurities.

[@ctrievel]

You are just a wonderful human being. I also had issues with disordered eating in my teen years. So much of what you said resonates with me and so many others. Keeping being the positive voice and light that you are !

[@louise7542]

I loved this, I'm currently 14 and have recently went through puberty. Before I had a tiny waist and an amazing figure but obviously now things have changed and it's taking me a while to be okay with that but I can say with confidence that with out your story anna , I would be no where near where I am today so I thank u for that 💕💕💕

[@alyssalucine]

Louise I hope when you get older you realize as a 14 yr old you shouldnt worry about your figure. That’s something you should worry about if you start gaining weight or getting unhealthy.

[@rkive.daphne]

As a 21 year old girl, this helped me A LOT and saved myself a ton of time stressing about my looks. I just graduated this year from college and looking back, I had lost a lot of opportunities because I was too conscious on things that doesnt really matter. From now on, after all my realization this lockdown and this is the cherry on top I needed to fully live my life the way I really want it. There will be days I will still wont love small things about my body but I understand its normal and my body only has me, so I need to love and take care of her. Thank you so much Anna. You saved a lot of people years from heartache . Ps: pls do more videos like this what I would tell my younger self about self growth, handling your finances, dealing with life’s challenges. 🤍

[@FrauKatjuschka]

The best video on self love that I've seen in a really long time. Anna, I don't think you realize how much of a role model you are to girls and young women. I wish I would have known you back when I was a teenager.

[@MsAnny1998]

Thank you, so much for making this video.♥️ For someone who is still struggling to love their body and have a better relationship with food, this is such a beautiful video. Thank you, again, Anna.

[@Ameliatmae]

Thank you so so much for this video Anna I can’t put into words how you have helped me with my body image through the years. I’m currently 17 and have also struggled since around 12 with eating disorders and the way I see my body. Seeing you recovered and healthy/happy is my inspiration. I’m on my journey with loving myself but it’s extremely difficult. Thank you for your advice and encouragement. Xx

[@alannahdunn3049]

I cannot express how much this video got to my core! I just put your video on and put it in my pocket and did some jobs and listened to your story and your positivity and wow. It was like listening to a motivational ebook. I am seriously seriously struggling with my body image and my eating habits and im overweight so I am unable to access the hell that I need here in NZ because nobody really takes me seriously. But im honestly scared that I may die if I continue using these behaviours in the severity that I am. I hate being so alone and lost and listening to your story and your voice just gives me the tiniest shred of hope that I may one day survive this?

[@kaitlingelsinger4789]

Yes yes! After 15 years of dieting and calorie counting, I have finally caught on to the importance of intuitive eating. I look back and realize I started calorie counting at 11 which is so upsetting to me now. You, Abbey Sharp, and Stephanie Buttermore have been the most inspiring and informative public figures on the topic!

[@janessametzen6142]

Thank you so much for always opening up about your past struggles. You are the reason I decided to start getting helping for my eating disorder. It means so much to me that you talk about these things, normalizing the conversation and opening up and making me feel less alone. I love you and I'm so proud of how far you've come!! ❤❤

[@RachelJ715]

You're such an inspiration me. You are like the virtual older sister that I never had. I'm in a dark place right now but your videos give me hope x

[@kkremember]

Thanks, Anna. 20 valuable minutes spent watching with my teenage daughter. I’ve probably made every point to her over the years but it never seems to sink in when it comes from me. Hoping a little will penetrate when it comes from somewhere else. Delighted you’re in such a strong place and that the hard work you’ve put in has paid off.

[@feliciabourque]

I am so glad you decided to do this video. I wish more people would talk about body image and self love. You are a great mom I hope that your children grow up to know and see what an amazing person and role model their mother is.

[@Mel-xc5lk]

I’m 18, and can’t think of a single day I’ve actually liked the way I’ve looked. I think about every single bite of food and how it will affect me. Coming from someone who’s had body issues since I can remember, thank you so much Anna for opening up about this 💘

[@meganangelarovelli9894]

This video needs to be broadcasted to every teenager! ❤️ so inspiring!!!!!

[@shelleyn2884]

Great video Anna! I think this highlights the fact that EDs aren't really about weight in the end. Some girls for whatever reason are riddled with massive insecurity and not having a strong inner voice and it manifests in this toxic stuff. You obviously have matured and come to know who you are and what you think and have been able to make this massive shift towards health. So happy you are illuminating this problem to help others.

[@ShelbySays]

You are such a gem. Thank you for always being so honest and self aware. I struggled with bulimia as a teen after some random boy called me fat in gym. I didnt have the insight at the time to realize it was just a hurting kid lashing out. But I internalized that shit like crazy and didn't learn to love my body until my 20s. Im glad I did! I am so much happier and healthier now!

[@margaux5932]

The other day I was on a weekend with friends and friends from friends, and this guy I barely knew said to me (as I was snacking on a cucumber) “wow I’ve noticed you’re always eating, you should be fat” (I actually look quite athletic and slim). And I was so shocked that this guy was telling me this and I replied something like “well, I’m not” ... but this goes to show how the world is so messed up!! Like, what if I need to eat more than other ppl , if it works for me, you know! Each body is different, and as you said, healthy is what makes YOU feel good! Thanks so much for this video Anna, I have been watching you for years and I can see how much you’ve grown as a person and you really are an accomplished woman now! So nice to see !

[@CarmenCherie93]

this was so helpful Anna. I had the same issues in the past, it is so sad to hear that so many girls had the same trauma during their teen years. Maybe we can help younger people when speaking up about how we felt back then and how we feel now looking back. Being a teenager should be fun and exciting, for everyone who struggles this is for you: You are worthy and your body does an amazing job!

[@twirler299]

I was actually very hesitant to watch this video because usually these videos are cliche and sometimes sad. I just really was expecting the exact opposite of this video. I really appreciated you putting this video out because I could relate to so many things and this video actually made me feel a lot better about myself in my early twenties. I’m currently the heaviest I’ve ever been, but probably the healthiest I’ve ever been. I’ve been working out and trying to eat better so it’s been very frustrating for me to see the number on the scale. I’m so glad I watched this video and I’m excited to read the book you talked about!

[@AngelliRajKaur]

emilia, eduardo, alessia and andrea are so lucky to have someone like you to look up to anna! this video was something i really needed today. sending love to you and your family from malaysia! i've been watching you guys since i was 13, i'm 19 now! thank you for being a part of my life❤️

[@CaliAnimalLover]

Anna you have grown into such a wise young woman. I’m just sorry you had to go through so much to get here. But I’m glad you’re a voice for young women and even young girls who look up to you. Hopefully because of your honesty, and your story, they’ll integrate these truths into their self-talk and avoid so many pitfalls! We really are so much more than what we look like!

[@irenejones1544]

Thank you Anna for this wonderful video! You are a pioneer and as a 41 year old woman I learn so much from you. I am very happy that you are in my sphere. Well done woman! You are an inspiration. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@Rachel-ds2ux]

I loved this video so much. I too have struggled with body image/eating, and can relate to so much of what you described. Your advice was really helpful and really got me thinking, especially the "you are your own worst critic" bit. Thanks so much for posting this Anna ♥️♥️♥️

[@darlynDUH]

This video is so helpful more than you’d imagine. I’ve suffered from body image and I think it’s due to my family always making comments on my appearance. When I was younger I was always told by them that I was too “skinny” and after having kids they’d tell me I was too “fat”. I used to go on extreme diets and deprived myself of food and it’s only now that I’m starting to accept the way I look.

[@hollyolivia2868]

I needed to hear this. I've always struggled with my weight and it doesn't matter how much weight I lost, I'd never be happy with my weight. If I lost weight, I felt like I needed to gain it and if I gained it, I felt as though I needed to lose it again. Learning to be happy in your body as it is is key. You're right, everyone is their own critic and you will always feel as though changing is what you need to do but it's NOT. Don't focus on weight, focus on your mind. A happier mind will always make you happier than losing or gaining the weight❤️

[@jenny_foodie]

Never mind giving tips to a teenager, I’m 39 years old and this is something I needed to hear....I also struggle with body image but it is especially hard when you’re constantly trying to better yourself, yet have loved ones who say they’re just being “honest” by telling you to lose some weight.

[@BootsieDior74]

This was a FANTASTIC video Anna!! Thank you for doing this and thank you for being so open and honest with us all these years. I first have to say that you were and ARE absolutely BEAUTIFUL no matter what size your body is! Those flashback photos of you as a child shows a normal girl! You were not fat you were truly just perfect! Perfect in the sense that you were just a normal kid living a normal life and you were meant to be the way you were! If that makes sense. We are all so terribly hard on ourselves when in fact we are who we are! It’s as simple as that! I have always been curvy and “thick” which is a term that is used instead of saying overweight ! That being said I eat normal and I move around often. I have no health issues and my cholesterol, my blood pressure and everything is all normal and healthy! I just decided a few years ago to not focus on weight and just live my life. I’m happily married w amazing healthy kids and two grandkids I adore. Life is amazing and I will no longer allow my weight to rule my world! I am SO proud of YOU for finally reaching this point as well!! You’re doing such an incredible job! I always enjoy your videos and look forward to each one! BIG hugs and love to you ~Miranda 💜

[@vildebentzen958]

Thank you Anna for being so open an honest and sharing your story, it means so much to hear and it is so inspirational and validating. The world needs more of this, there are so many of us who need to hear things like this. Your kids are so lucky to grow up with a mum like you xx

[@larissa_7729]

Anna u can tell 💯 that you feel so much better now.. your happiness shines through and it’s wonderful. So nice to see you enjoying life and giving great advice to young people. Congrats 🎊

[@ElzaraIsmE]

Anna, I follow you for I don't even remember how long! I remember you announcing your first pregnancy with Emilia. That's how long it has been. As a person who also recovered from an eating disorder/still struggling with body image issues, I can't emphasize enough how important this video is. I was so surprised to hear every point that you make that reflects what I came to believe during my recovery journey. This is probably one of the best videos you filmed. Thank you! I'm also so happy to see you feel more confident and so sure about yourself. Sending so much love!

[@melindalee8659]

As a Mom of teen girls, thank you for this video. Great information delivered in a very safe and comforting fashion. I really appreciate you taking the time and care to share this.

[@MissTilly91]

Anna I have followed you since before Emilia was born and I feel like this is huge, you are amazing and you sound like you’re in such a good place. Thank you for saying this, I hope lots of teenagers see this or just people in general because I needed to hear this and my teenage self certainly did too. I’m also going to read that book thank you.

[@karinepimentel7737]

Anna, this video is by far THE BEST video you did ever! This “tips” are precious! I hope i could save it to show my daughter at the proper age! Wow! I’m 37 and i still thinking about everything you said! And it all true! Kisses

[@sarahhobgood6854]

i really needed this after i’ve started struggling with eating habits after gaining weight in quarantine, thank you anna ❤️🙏🏻

[@karenkeighley4476]

Brilliant put together and said. I relate to everything and it completely rounds up how I have let myself get lost in this world of living my life to what you think others expect to see. Well done Anna your an inspiration. X

[@jerseygirls3]

I also gained a lot of weight around age 11/12. I was always taller than everyone and at that time, "chunkier." I was very insecure about it and still think about it at times. Once I hit age 14 my body naturally went back to being slender and I have been that way ever since. Then the comments came asking if I ate and telling me that I was too skinny when in reality, I never changed a thing about my diet or exercise. It is difficult to grow up with people commenting on your weight one way or the other, for me it was on both ends of the spectrum. I love watching your videos because it reminds me that others also have had struggles with this. You are a ray of light Anna and and amazing person! Thank you for being so open and honest, you help others more than you could possibly know :)

[@natashabailie5660]

I love this and that you are back and sharing yourself with such awesome authenticity x

[@psycommentary]

I can't tell you how much I still needed to hear this as a nearly 30 y/o woman. I will be sharing this with my oldest daughter who just hit puberty. Thank you so much for your openness.

[@agelikimilios5054]

I wish I knew these too. I’ve been a long time follower during the Style diet days! Would frequent your videos all of the time while I was similarly going through body image struggles. Love how open and honest you are today about the struggles you went through!

[@Knitsbymomo]

This was the most powerful, important and beautiful video that you have ever made. Thank you so much for your honesty ❤️ I wish they would show this video in school for young teenagers, I surely would have needed to hear it then❤️

[@CathyMiller0711]

This is the most important video you've ever done, Anna.I have only recently learned about intuitive eating and rejecting the diet culture that is all around us, all day, every day. I'm sure this is going to help many young women who follow you.

[@heyhannh]

I really adore you Anna. I'm 29 next month so grew up at a similar time to you. I always found the 90s/00s difficult for similar reasons to you, and I have realised that is also where a lot of my body image issues from. Whilst watching this I was in a really reflective mood. I just wish people would consider not commenting so much on what people look like. I have Ulcerative Colitis, so my weight fluctuates all the time. I remember being my lowest mentally and physically, and people would say "you look great, wow you've lost so much weight." Which I'm sure came from a good place, but all it did was reinforce that I SHOULD be sick in order to look better. I can't tell you how much you speaking about this has helped, I know it can't be easy. You're inspiring, keep shining xxx

[@itsreallybarbs]

I totally understand and believe in the healthy in every size talk. I was always a bigger size compared to other kids. I remember one doctor's appointment when I was 13 or 14 when the doctor looked at my samples was surprised to find that despite my size, I was really healthy. It made me feel bad because that's when I realized that people had a certain image when they think of someone healthy. Thank you for sharing this :) This really inspired me. Much love ❤

[@miramadi]

Wow your story is eerily similar to mine. People-pleasing nature. Getting my period early, developing a year or so after, and being uncomfortable with the [normal] weight gain. Also the fact that we weren't pressured by our mothers but diet culture still took hold. Thank you so much for sharing

[@heytheretish2468]

I’m honestly crying my eyes out! 🥺😭😢 Thank you for sharing this, it was very much needed. I’ve struggled for years with body image and definitely needed to hear these things.... I’m definitely going to write that list of qualities, I think that will really help me. Thank you Anna, so so so so so much 🥺❤️🥺❤️🥺

[@riana4180]

I love everything you’ve said here! You can really see how much work you put into your recovery, and I’m so glad you’re sharing it! It’s taken me years to get back to intuitive eating, and I’m so glad I have. THANK YOU FOR SHARING THIS! I feel like every parent should watch it!

[@AnnaSaccone]

Thank you so much!!

[@flowersgrimm]

I’ve dealt with such low body confidence in my early 20’s that now at 27, I like my body, I don’t love it, I’m not there yet, but I’m finding less things I hate when I look at myself. You’re so strong and beautiful. I’ve been watching you for years and you look lovely as a blonde. :)

[@barbsjournals]

Absolutely love this video, such a powerful message. Thank you for speaking up about this as unfortunately way too many people are struggling with body image and I'm so happy to see more and more people online speaking up about this. Whoever is reading this, you're beautiful just the way you are, so never allow the world or yourself to tell you otherwise 💕

[@Samantha-Yvette]

I wish I saw this video when I was younger because where I live, being skinny was a top beauty standard, and to add to that family members would constantly talk about your body. So, at the age of 12 I was already struggling or worrying about my weight. At 16, I use to eat one meal a day and thought it was ok because then people would like me more but like what Anna said it doesnt help long term. But now I’m more educated and as long as I’m health I am fine. Long story short, at the end of the day stop worrying about what others think of you because guaranteed they’re more preoccupied thinking about people say about themselves. I’m so happy your children have you as your mother because growing up on the internet is not easy. Thank you Anna for this💓

[@annemariepappe6131]

I'm happy you learned to accept and love your body, Anna! It is so important. As for me, I'm super skinny by nature and people sometimes tell me that I look unhealthy or not womanly enough, ask me if I'm dieting and suggest me to try and put on some weight, which I find just as disrespectful as commenting on someone's "over"weight. Especially because I'm not trying to lose weight. I'm an intuitive eater, so I eat whenever I'm hungry and whatever I want, which is a good thing, I think. I've never struggled with any form of eating disorder. I'm just naturally skinny, that's all. And it's difficult for me to put on weight, just as it is for other people to lose weight. So hearing comments like that is hurtful (even if the intentions are good).