Between Hollywood’s obsession with weight loss and America’s worsening obesity problem lies a huge contradiction regarding how Americans should look.

Some stars are speaking out in hopes of combating the unhealthy body images encouraged by celebrities like Nicole Richie and the Olsen twins. The result has been a 180-degree turn toward acceptance of larger figures, but it may prove equally unhealthy.

For example, in a January episode of her self-titled talk show, Tyra Banks responded emphatically to harsh criticisms that she had gained weight over the years saying that she was proud of her curvier body and that all women should feel the same. But at 5 feet 10 inches and 161 pounds, Banks’ weight is still in a healthy range according to her body mass index. The same cannot be said for over 66 million Americans who are considered clinically obese, according to 2003-04 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

So while she was right in fighting back against the popularity of the “”heroin chic”” look, it may not be the right message to be sending to the masses.

The solution to America’s body image troubles won’t be found in miracle weight loss pills, in Big Macs or in acceptance of obesity.

Forget the pressure for waif-like frames. Don’t take it as an excuse to accept those extra 20 pounds. Just learn to entertain a healthy lifestyle. Then maybe America can find a middle ground.