What is healthy weight?

Ask your health care provider about a healthy weight for you at your next appointment. If you start to gain or lose weight and do not know why, your health care provider can tell you if this change is healthy for you. If you are underweight, overweight or obese, you are more likely to have certain health problems.

Health risks of being underweight

• Poor memory

• Decreased immunity

• Osteoporosis (bone loss)

• Decreased muscle strength

• Hypothermia (lowered body temperature)

If you are underweight, you may not be getting enough nutrients. Talk to your health care provider about the best way to gain weight and meet your nutritional needs.

Health risks of being overweight

• Type 2 diabetes

• High blood pressure

• High blood cholesterol

• Heart disease and stroke

• Some types of cancer

• Sleep apnea (when breathing stops for short periods during sleep)

• Osteoarthritis (wearing away of the joints)

• Gallbladder disease

If you already have one or more of these diseases, ask your health care provider if a modest weight loss (5 to 10 percent of your body weight) could help you feel better or need less medicine.

Do not try to lose weight unless your health care provider tells you to.

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