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The average American may be closer to a realistic healthy weight than Barbie dolls and fashion models, but he or she shouldn't be your role model either—the average American man and woman are about 20 pounds overweight. On the other hand, the average male model towers over the rest of us at 6'2" and weighs 140 to 165 pounds and, according to model recruiting websites like SoYouWanttoBeaModel.com, the average starlet soars to an average height of 5'8", while weighing just 108 to 125 pounds. Not normal!

Unfortunately, it's nearly impossible to avoid being bombarded by these unhealthy images. You'll find them everywhere you look—on TV shows, commercials, billboards, in movies, magazines and newspapers. Although you may be tempted to compare yourself, don't! Remember that being healthy and feeling great doesn't come with a "must wear size 2" disclaimer. Stay happy and healthy with these five reality-check tips.

Be a Skeptic
Become a critical viewer of social and media messages, says Dr. Dana Rofey, assistant professor at the University of Pittsburgh and a psychologist at the Weight Management and Wellness Center at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. Be aware of images, slogans and attitudes that make you feel bad about yourself or your body, and try to limit your exposure to them, if possible.

4 more reality-check tips

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