Karina Irby: Model, 33, reveals her inspiring reverse body transformation trends now

Most body transformations focus on weight loss, but for Australian swimwear designer Karina Irby, her greatest achievement was embracing her natural curves.

The 33-year-old founder of Moana Bikini revealed she used to limit her diet and work out obsessively when she was younger because she felt pressure to be thin.

She shared her experience on Tuesday in a candid Instagram Story, posting a throwback photo of herself in her teens looking extremely slim.

While Irby stressed she 'didn't have a disorder', she said her relationship with food and exercise was unhealthy at the time, and her desire to stay thin was motivated by the warped belief it was the only way to be popular.

'I didn't have a disorder,' she began, 'but I did purposely eat less and do non-stop cardio.'

Irby said she blames 'the media' of the time for 'brainwashing' her into 'thinking you were only beautiful if you were thin. You'd only have friends or a boyfriend if you were thin.'

She added: 'It was so toxic and extremely unhealthy, both mentally and physically.

'But I'm thankful for my experiences because now I get to share body love with you guys. Be the change you wish to see.'

Two months ago, Irby hit back at a troll who told her to 'consider seeing a doctor' after she shared a relatable photo of her bloated stomach.

The Gold Coast native often posts about her bloating to remind her 1.1 million Instagram followers it is perfectly normal and affects many women.

But after uploading a picture of herself when she was feeling 'bleh' on her period, one cruel follower said she should get her stomach checked out by a professional.