I can't exactly say that I'm fit and thin, because I'm about 12 lbs overweight. Also, I have high cholesterol and blood pressure, but I know that my weight could be much higher than it is. Many of my female ancestors (and some male ancestors) have been/were heavier than me, with even worse health issues, so I guess I've done something a little right. Physical activity of some form is likely part of my secret. Even if I'm not doing formal exercise, I'm a fast moving sort. Not lethargic. I also love to cook and know what healthful food is all about. Not that I don't eat high fat/calorie stuff too often, but I eat low calorie/fat, as well. I can give myself credit that I can plan very satisfying low fat/calorie meals. Such meals need not only be lettuce, and other raw veggies, with lemon juice on it.

I fully acknowledge that some bipolar medications can be nasty weight-gainers, but not all. Of my current medications, only Seroquel XR is a challenge for me, but even that is a lesser evil than some others I have taken. I have found some medications weight neutral that others have not. For example, Lithium was weight neutral for me. The only positive about that medication I experienced.

A stable mood certainly helps to keep my weight down. It allows me the motivation needed to stick to a diet and plan meals effectively. Depression makes things very difficult. Hypomania/mania could go either way, when it comes to losing/gaining weight, for me.

I have good muscle tone, and always have. Stems a bit from my ballet years and perhaps genes (mother's side). That and being large-boned make my extra 12 lbs seem like less than many other women's at my same weight. IOWs, many people think I weigh less than I do.