I used to hide my body as people called me fat – now I flaunt it in bikinis

When people make cruel comments it can be really damaging.

In fact, one woman admitted she was called "fat" so often that she would cover up her body constantly, even during extremely hot weather.

Alicia McCarvell said people are quick to say how "different" she is to her super-toned husband, Scott McCarvell, just because of her size.

READ MORE: Plus-size model dares to go knickerless as she slips into teeny dress

The plus-size babe is known for documenting the couple's story on Instagram, and she often tries to promote body positive content.

In a recent post she opened up about how she spent years hiding her curves due to insecurities, but now she's not going to let the trolls get her down.

And she posed in super gorgeous green swimwear to show just how sexy curves can be.

Alicia posted a number of snaps of herself looking gorgeous in green – and she proved she's not afraid to flash her tum.

Smiling proudly with her wavy locks sweeping her shoulders, she looked glowing and confident in the pictures.

She also kept her make-up super neutral to show that natural beauty is powerful.

Writing on Instagram, Alicia said: "My body is not society's ideal body. That’s why I used to spend so much time being ashamed of it.

"I was made to believe that my body wasn’t acceptable and that it needed to be covered up.

"I wouldn’t tuck in my shirt because I didn’t want others to see the belly.

"I’d wear shorts and a T-shirt to the beach, so others didn’t have to see how round I was.

"I’d wear jeans to cover up my legs on a 30+ degree day, even if it mean I’d sweat and be uncomfortable.

"I would go out of my way to make MYSELF uncomfortable so that OTHERS didn’t have to be uncomfortable seeing me.

"I need to make something clear – covering your 'fat' insecurities does not make them invisible. It simply makes you feel more ashamed of them!

"My arms are still flabby, underneath my long sleeve shirt. My belly is still big whether my shirts tucked in or not, and I still have cellulite under my shorts at the beach.

"I think it is really important to understand where an insecurity comes from and truly grasp WHY you feel the way you do about your body.

"There is something extremely empowering about unleashing your insecurities."

She said the more you see them the more you realise that these "imperfections" don't really matter.

Alicia also encouraged others to wear bathing suits, short sleeves and to walk around naked at home to embrace their bodies.

In an uplifting post, she promised people they "won't regret it".

Since she opened up about body image more than 50,000 people have liked the post – and several of her followers commented too.

One person said: "Because of this ladies post, I am going out for my bday and wear a jumper, which I never have done, and I'm going to rock it."

Another wrote: "Because of you, I am wearing my first form fitting dress at a wedding next weekend."

Meanwhile, a third replied: "I'm so glad you're here like this!

"It's real and an eye opener for all real women out there who think they need to hide their curves. Of that I'm one."

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