Healthy Weight
People with excess weight are much more likely to develop heart disease than those who are at a healthy weight.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
Experts most often use BMI (Body Mass Index) to determine a healthy body weight. BMI is calculated from body height and weight (weight in kg/height in m2 OR 703 x weight in lb/height in inches2).
- BMI of 18.5-24.9 is considered healthy
- BMI of 25-29.9 is considered overweight
- BMI of 30 or greater is considered obese
Note: For some people, BMI does not accurately describe a healthy weight. If you have greater than normal muscle mass (body builders or high-level athletes) or you are an older adult, BMI may not be a suitable method for determining your healthy weight.
Book mark our weight loss advice page on the HeartMart blog to get the latest tips for losing weight and keeping it off.
Achieving a Healthy Weight
Your body weight is determined by the calories you eat and the calories you expend through daily activities. If you eat more calories than you expend, you will gain weight over time. Eating the right amount of food and performing adequate exercise are the most important components of achieving a healthy weight.
Since losing weight and sustaining weight loss can be very difficult, your first goal for body weight is to prevent weight gain.
