I've realized that I'm more important than food is. I love a big slice of pizza, but I love myself more. Being thin is about changing the way you think about yourself. It's about saying that you deserve to be healthy.

Valerie Bertinelli’s quote, "I've realized that I'm more important than food is. I love a big slice of pizza, but I love myself more. Being thin is about changing the way you think about yourself. It's about saying that you deserve to be healthy," highlights the importance of self-love and self-worth in achieving health and well-being. Bertinelli expresses that true health and the ability to maintain a healthy weight come not from restriction or obsession with food, but from a mindset shift—recognizing that taking care of oneself is more important than indulging in unhealthy habits.

The meaning behind the quote is that weight loss and health are deeply connected to how we view and treat ourselves. Bertinelli points out that to achieve lasting health, it’s essential to first believe that you deserve to be healthy and to prioritize your well-being over fleeting pleasures like eating a big slice of pizza. The quote stresses that self-care is about respecting your body and making choices that support your health in the long term, rather than simply focusing on short-term gratification.

Originating from Bertinelli’s own journey with body image and weight struggles, the quote reflects her personal experience of learning to love and take care of herself. As an actress who has been in the public eye for much of her life, Bertinelli has openly shared her struggles with weight and self-image. Her statement is a reflection of her growth and understanding that health comes from a place of self-compassion, not perfection or obsession with food.

Ultimately, Bertinelli’s message encourages a mindset shift where self-love and self-worth drive healthy decisions. It’s not about depriving yourself of the foods you enjoy, but about making choices that honor your body and support long-term well-being. The quote serves as a reminder that being healthy is not just about losing weight, but about loving yourself enough to prioritize your health and happiness.