A good way to check if you're a healthy weight is to use the Body Mass Index (BMI).
BMI is a measure that can allow you to check if you're a healthy weight for your height. It allows for natural variations in body shape, giving a healthy weight range for a particular height.
Although useful for most people, BMI doesn't work for everyone. It’s not suitable for young children or older people. It’s also not very useful if you’re have a high muscle bulk, perhaps because you're very athletic. The heavier muscles will push up your BMI measurement. For instance, heavily muscled rugby players have 'obese' BMIs, even though they are not carrying excess body fat.
You can check your BMI using our healthy weight tool (see the right of this page). The tool will even direct you to more content on this site that is relevant to you.
Read on to learn what your BMI means.
BMI 18.5-24.9
Well done for being in the ideal weight-for-height range. But remember that it's still important to eat a healthy diet if you want to stay in that range, and to ensure that your body has all the nutrients it needs. A BMI below 18.5 is a health risk and too low for optimal health.
BMI 25.0-29.9
Your weight is just above the ideal range. That’s fine if you’re a keen athlete with plenty of body muscle, but if this isn’t the reason for your higher BMI, your health is beginning to suffer from the extra stored fat. Check your diet and make small changes to prevent more weight gain, and to help lose the extra weight.
BMI 30.0-34.9
This is a wake-up call: change your diet now. You are at a much higher risk of developing ill-health due to your weight. You’re 10 times more likely to get diabetes, and your weight is increasing your risk of arthritis, heart disease and some cancers. Your weight means you have a shorter life expectancy, and weight-related health concerns will reduce your quality of life. Remember, even a 5-10% weight loss will have a major benefit on your health. So what are you waiting for?
BMI 35.0+
It's likely that you already know that your weight is seriously affecting your health. You're at raised risk of heart disease, stroke and premature death. In addition to making lifestyle changes, you should discuss your weight issues with your GP or district nurse, as you may need the additional support of a health professional.
Lose weight
If your BMI has revealed that you're overweight, then it's time to take action.
Even a modest weight loss will reap fantastic health benefits. Losing 5-10kg (11lb–22lb) improves back and joint pain, lowers your risk of developing diabetes, reduces breathlessness and improves your sleep quality, helping you to feel fitter and more energised throughout the day.
Losing 10% of your weight lowers blood pressure, improves blood sugar control and lowers total cholesterol. And don't forget the positive outlook you'll get when you successfully lose weight and take control of your diet and lifestyle. Just imagine if you could fit into the favourite party dress again.
Work out your BMI using our healthy weight calculator
