I think sometimes it's intended as a sort of backhanded compliment. I still feel it's rude either way.

Either comment is not needed or appropriate, especially in situations where one’s appearance is not relevant. I’ve gotten, “Don’t you eat?” , a few times. I’m not even that skinny. Well, yes, in fact I’m a bottomless pit when it comes to eating.

Something I hate the most hearing about is the concept of “real women”. Apparently women who are fit, athletic, model-like, etc. are not considered “real women”. Most of my friends, clients, relatives, are not of my body type and I’m often made to feel like I’m not “normal”. Many assumptions are made about my abilities (eg. I must not be able to lift heavy things). My former boss mentioned to someone that she worried a little 100 lbs thing like me wouldn’t be able to lift a big old dog who kept soiling himself into the tub to wash. I’m actually closer to 120 lbs (a lot of muscle weight) and I can lift 100 lbs if I have to.

If there’s anything I truly despise it’s people being judgmental about another person’s appearance!!!

I am with you on this one, body and mind!
I have been "too thin" for very many over the years!

I have no need to comment or criticize anybody's body...unless she and I are considering an intimate relationship. Another word for that might be "dating." She will have wishes and preferences about appearances and body type. And so will I. Other than that, I have no agenda.

I can only wonder what he was trying to accomplish with his comment. You're obviously quite active and certainly not a child. Was he trying to take a dominant role in your interaction?

My first thought is that he might be a little intimidated by you. Lol.
You may be more confident than he's used to. If the best behavior he can respond with is some negging (do they still call it that?), it doesn't speak well for his self image. Ha, ha.

You are beautiful, just as you are.

You are a strong, active, healthy woman - doesn't get much better than that, no matter the size!