I'm larger and at risk for diabetes since it runs in the family. So I exercise and watch what I eat and don't wear lycra too much except on long rides (usually organized rides over 30 miles) where I cover them up with shorts cuz there's no place to put my wallet, keys, loose change, cue sheets, etc. As for people saying tactless stupid things, learn to let it roll of your back and ignore the haters. The achievement of losing weight will feel better than gaining it and will be something eternally skinny people can never comprehend.