Dear VL

Not much to add to what the others have said, re: whatever you can do/say that she responds to, to encourage her to watch her weight and physical health. I'd say even small superficial gifts that nurture/honor the body might be good for her... perfumed bath soaps if she enjoys those things, a good hand or body lotion, a gentle face tonic especially if she wears makeup... little things that say, "I care about your body; your body is worth caring about". Also compliments on parts of her that are particularly nice... if she has pretty eyes, or hair, or looks good in a certain outfit.

Re: associating with bad people. I did my share of that, especially out of low self-esteem. With me it went past my 30's and even a little into my 40's, where I might have a friend or partner who turned out kinda toxic, and rather than walking away, I'd stick around out of a sense of (I realized later, misplaced) loyalty.

Self-esteem causes a lot of women especially to stay in friendships or relationships that are unhealthy, where they might be taken advantage of or tread upon. The exact patterns of mistreatment or disrespect vary from person to person.

Perhaps the best thing you could do in this regard is try to help her build up her self-esteem. It's something she'll have to work out, but you can help by affirming her in the good things she does, and letting her that you are on her side. You probably do this already. I think this might be more helpful than pointing out she is making bad choices. Pointing out mistakes, while constructive criticism, is criticism. It reinforces the idea that one is not good enough, and not capable. As to that, you could perhaps ask questions about new friends... ask her what she looks for in a friendship. What does she need from others? What does she enjoy in others? This might encourage her to think more of her own needs. By showing her that you care and respect her needs and preferences, it might help her reconsider her worth in a positive light.