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revised
February 17, 2023
  Do You Have a Healthy Weight?
People come in a variety of heights, shapes and frames... there is a range of weights that is healthy. To see if your weight is in the healthy range, find your Body Mass Index (BMI) on the BMI Chart. BMI is a measure that relates weight to height and risk of health problems...
BMI Chart |
The BMI chart is not appropriate for everyone.
The BMI chart is designed for adults 20 to 65 when body size and composition are fairly stable.
The BMI chart is not for babies, children, teens, pregnant or breast feeding women, or adults over 65 years old. Nor does it apply to very muscular people and endurance athletes such as runners.
Know your BMI... On the BMI chart
- Find your height (in inches or centimeters).
- Find your weight (in pounds or kilograms).
Your BMI is the point on the graph where your height and weight meet. |
What Does BMI Mean? |
The BMI chart is divided into 3 areas:
Healthy Weight Range:
- If your BMI lies within the shaded area, then you have a lower risk of developing weight-related health problems. To optimise your health, eat well and keep active.
Above a Healthy Weight:
- If your BMI lies above the shaded area, then you may be at greater risk for health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers.
- Until science knows more, the best advice for many people who have dieted repeatedly and are still above a healthy weight may be to be aware of their health risks, and maintain a stable weight by eating well, and keeping active. This avoids the further weight gain and stress on the body that usually comes with repeated dieting.
Below a Healthy Weight:
- If your BMI lies below the shaded area, then you may be at risk for health problems such as irregular heart rhythms, depression, anemia, and osteoporosis.
- Some people have a low BMI, but are eating well and have lots of energy. The best advice for people below a healthy weight is to be aware of their health risks and maintain a stable weight by eating well and keeping active.
If you're below a healthy weight because you skip meals, or above because you choose too often to have junk food in front of the computer or TV, you can take steps to restore your weight to its natural set-point range and reduce your risk of health problems. See eating well, keeping active, and coping with stress in positive ways. You'll feel much better too! |
Professional Support |
If you are struggling with an eating disorder, seek professional support.
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Revised:
February 17, 2023
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