(CNN) -- There are indications that a growing number of overweight people are giving up on diets and accepting their size. For some, being overweight is not necessarily bad.

"What are our choices?" asked Sally Smith of the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance during the Million Pound March in Santa Monica, California, last August. "We can yo-yo diet, which has been documented as unhealthy, or we can try to be as healthy as we can, regardless of our weight."

Pat Lyons of the Connections Women's Health Consulting Network said she believes a person can be both fat and fit. She has started an exercise class for large women in California.

"Life is too short for self-hatred and celery sticks," she said. "And this whole sense that you have to be thin in order to be healthy -- that you have to be thin to have a good like -- that's simply not true."

There is much debate about whether a few extra pounds can really impact your health. But there is no debate when it comes to the seriously overweight or obese: The health risks are real and dangerous.

"Statistically, they face significantly increased risk, not only of heart disease and diabetes, and hypertension and stroke, but they also face an increased risk of dying prematurely," said Barbara Moore of Shape Up America!.

Judi Anderson says she knows the risks, but she's done with dieting. Instead she's exercising and not worrying about her weight.

"It's just about one of the best things I have going in my life," she said. "I love the way I feel."

Experts say no matter what size people are, if they feel good about themselves, it can lead to overall healthier habits.