Demi Lovato talks body image, says she used to hate 'every inch' of herself

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Demi Lovato is riding the summer heatwave in style, with her latest single "Cool for the Summer" hitting the music charts. The former Disney talent, who turned 23 just yesterday, also graced the cover of Cosmopolitan Magazine's September issue, flaunting her super svelte figure. If you've been following the singer on social media, you would notice her admirable weight loss transformation, from going on SoulCycle sessions with tour mate Christina Perri to yoga and gym sessions.

Lovato, who previously battled bulimia, self-harm and addiction, was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2011, but made a fantastic recovery and turned to fitness to help her get back in shape, both physically and mentally.

Lovato told Fitness Magazine: "Exercising has been so important for my recovery, both physically and mentally. On show days I count my concert as a workout, but on my off days I try to work out once in the morning and again at night. It can be a lot between performing and travelling, so I'm careful not to push myself too hard."

She also has some sage advice for those who want to shed the pounds for health. 

"Be patient, because real change takes time. I used to Google things like 'How to lose weight in a week,' but the world just doesn't work that way. If you want to lose weight, you've got to work for it. If you want to get stronger, you've got work for it. Any other way isn't going to be healthy, and it's not going to last," she said. 

Billboard reports that Lovato also spoke to E! about her journey towards better health. She said of her Cosmopolitan cover: "It took so much for me to get a place where I would feel comfortable enough to do that. If anything, it's showing all of my fans who know my story and my journey that I've gone from hating every inch of my body to doing a photo shoot in my underwear in front of the entire world. That's more of statement to me than just looking sexy on a magazine cover...it's so important for me to show people that."

Lovato continues to be a champion for positive body image, inspiring others to love their own bodies despite flaws. She told Fitness Magazine: "Learning to be grateful for our bodies and taking care of them are the best ways for us to empower ourselves physically, mentally, and spiritually."