Black women need an attitude adjustment when it comes to weight and self-image, says Chicago Tribune writer Kayce T. Ataiyero. In an opinion piece published in the Trib a few days ago, Ataiyero lets loose in a spirited fashion on this topic. The idea that "big is beautiful" is widely accepted amongst black women, writes Ataiyero, but it is to their detriment. Yes, it's good to have a healthy self-image. The problem is that many black women are seriously overweight or obese, yet cling to the "big is beautiful" notion.

According to the latest statistics, eighty percent of black women over the age of forty are overweight or obese. Because they tend not to see overweight as a major health issue, black women put themselves at particular risk for illness, especially heart disease, high blood pressure, hypertension, and diabetes.

Ataiyero takes a few good pot shots at the comedian Mo'Nique (pictured), who advances the view that big girls are beautiful and sexy. "Ain't nothing sexy about a stroke," writes Ataiyero. This article is a great read and makes some valid points - check it out.