What Does "Healthy Weight" Really Mean?
August 3, 2021By: Daniel Boyce DO
Categories: Live Healthy, Nutrition, Prevention, Weight Loss Management, Your Wellness
One common piece of health and wellness advice is “maintain a healthy weight.” But what does that even mean? People come in all shapes and sizes so a healthy weight for one person may not be so healthy for another. How do you know if you’re at a healthy weight?
People assume if they don’t look overweight or have a normal body mass index, or BMI, and body weight they’re healthy. But that’s not always the case. Just because you have a normal BMI and body weight doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Excess belly fat can cause heart disease, stroke and Type 2 diabetes.
Age Matters
As we age, excess weight becomes harder to lose and creates more health risks. Muscles shrink and weaken as we get older, so it is important to achieve and maintain a healthy weight range early in life.
Food Choices Matter, Too
Learning how to make healthy food choices starts early. If you have children, being aware of their eating and exercise habits can help them create a positive mindset as they grow. Teaching young children about healthy food choices will help to strengthen their concept of a healthy body. And, of course, practice what you preach.
Benefits of Staying Fit
A heathy weight can:
- Bring relief to an achy back or joint
- Decrease bloating and heartburn associated with certain foods
- Increase your energy level
- Make your body look leaner and reduce your body measurements
- Reduce complexion issues
- Help you sleep better
- Reduce the need for blood pressure and cholesterol medications
- Reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke
If you’re concerned about your weight, your primary care doctor can help you determine your target range and offer ways to reach, and stay in, your healthy weight range.
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