Fitness blogger posts photo to prove that even the flattest stomachs can bloat

Sometimes Instagram is a bit TOO perfect. Abs on Instagram don't bloat ever.

But certified personal trainer Kelsey Wells (@mysweatlife) swears it’s a big misconception — one that ends up making everyone feel worse about their bodies.

“I have received more than a few questions lately such as ‘how do you never look bloated?’” she recently wrote on Instagram. “I definitely do get bloated... I think it’s important for everyone to realize that these things are totally normal! And nothing to be ashamed of or embarrassed about.”

It’s why she posted a photo of her distended stomach a few days after Thanksgiving:

“Instagram is often a highlight reel of sorts,” she admits in the caption. “And there is nothing wrong with focusing on the positive! But it’s so important to keep it real and remember that most of the images you see while scrolling (including mine) are people’s ‘best foot forward,’” she continued.

It’s true that Kelsey’s typical posts involve super-flattering selfies taken while wearing nothing more than a sports bra and leggings, to showcase her lean and seemingly flawless build.

But Kelsey has been open about her body image issues. There have been times when she was underweight, pregnant, overweight, skinny fat, and (now) super fit.

Although Kelsey is in great shape now, she doesn't want her confidence to bring others down. “Of course I want to take photos in good lighting and show my best angles,” she wrote in her caption. “But I never want that to be misconstrued as saying I don't have bad ones or never look bloated. EVERYONE is human. Everyone is beautiful. The key is to spend less time picking ourselves apart and more time seeing how beautiful, amazing, and miraculous our bodies are — bloating, zits, stretch marks, and all.”

This is the kind of positivity we need around our bodies!