When family weighs in on your plate or your body, the most powerful responses blend boundaries, brevity, and self‑protection. Short, rehearsed lines help you stay calm, redirect the conversation, and signal clearly that your food choices and body are not up for public review. Here are eight strong responses inspired by therapists, dietitians, and body‑image educators that you can adapt to your own voice.​

1. “My body and my plate aren’t up for discussion.”
   • A firm, catch‑all boundary that shuts down both food and weight commentary at once.​
2. “I’m happy with what’s on my plate, thanks.”
   • Ideal when someone says “Do you really need more?” or “Is that all you’re eating?”—it recenters your satisfaction, not their opinion.​
3. “I’m working on a healthier relationship with food; comments don’t help.”
   • Gently names the impact and can open a more honest conversation with someone you trust.​
4. “We have a rule: we don’t comment on bodies.”
   • Useful if kids or younger relatives are around, framing this as a family value rather than a personal fight.​
5. “I know you think you’re helping, but it’s hurtful.”
   • Calls out “concern” talk—like “I’m just worried about your weight”—without escalating to an argument.​
6. “Let’s talk about something else—how’s work going for you?”
   • A smooth redirection that protects you and signals the topic is closed.​
7. “My body is my business. I’m feeling good.”
   • Centers how you feel instead of numbers, diets, or anyone else’s standards.​
8. “If you keep commenting on my body/food, I’ll need to step away.”
   • A clear boundary with a consequence, recommended when remarks are persistent or disrespectful.​

Using even one of these lines consistently can slowly retrain relatives’ expectations—and remind you that your worth has nothing to do with what’s on your plate or how your body looks at family gatherings