Selena Gomez isn’t holding back when it comes to defending herself against body-shaming comments. The 32-year-old star recently attended the opening night premiere of her new film Emilia Perez at the 2024 French American Film Festival, where she wore a sleek, long-sleeved black dress. Although the evening was meant to celebrate her new movie, some online critics took issue with her appearance, sparking a fresh wave of body-shaming comments.
In a now-deleted TikTok post, trolls speculated that Selena was “hiding her body” because she posed with her hands in front of her stomach in some red carpet photos. But before the post vanished, Selena stepped in to address the criticism directly. Responding in the comments section, she wrote, “This makes me sick…I have SIBO in my small intestine. It flares up.” She added, “I don’t care that I don’t look like a stick figure. I don’t have that body. End of story. No, I am NOT a victim. I’m just human.”
This isn’t the first time Selena has been vocal about her health issues and the impact they have on her body. Her open comment about SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) sheds light on a condition that many might not be familiar with. According to the Mayo Clinic, SIBO occurs when there’s an unusual increase in bacteria in the small intestine, particularly types not commonly found in that area of the digestive tract. It’s a condition that can cause uncomfortable symptoms like bloating, discomfort, and changes in weight, often fluctuating based on flare-ups.
The Mayo Clinic further explains that SIBO can develop when the movement of food and waste through the digestive tract slows down, whether due to surgery, disease, or other factors. This slower passage creates an environment where bacteria can grow excessively, leading to the challenging symptoms associated with the condition. For those living with SIBO, changes in body shape and size can be common, particularly during flare-ups, and Selena is no exception.
Selena’s response to the trolls reflects her no-nonsense attitude toward body-shaming, especially when it’s rooted in misunderstanding or unrealistic expectations. She’s long been a voice for body positivity and self-acceptance, reminding her fans and followers that everyone’s body is different—and that’s okay.
The Only Murders in the Building actress has been candid about her health struggles, from lupus to mental health challenges, and her openness continues to inspire others to embrace their own unique experiences. With this recent clapback, Selena is once again reminding people that she’s “just human” and doesn’t owe anyone an explanation for her appearance.
