Healthy weight

 

How can I maintain a healthy weight?

Modern life makes it all too easy to put on weight. Even a couple of pounds here and there add up over time.

Being overweight can lead to more aches and pains, sleep problems and for some people, less energy and confidence.

How do I know if I’m overweight?

To see if you and/or your child are a healthy weight, you can use this BMI healthy weight calculator.

BMI healthy weight calculator

For adults, the calculator will tell you if you are:

  • Underweight
  • Healthy weight
  • Overweight
  • Obese
  • Very obese

For children, it will tell you if they are:

  • Underweight
  • Healthy weight
  • Overweight
  • Obese
 
 

Underweight

If you or your child are in the underweight range, there are a number of possible reasons for this.

Your GP can help you find out more and give you help and advice. You can learn more on the NHS Choices website.

Healthy weight

If you’re in this range, it means you are a healthy weight for your height. To stay in good health it’s still important to eat a balanced diet and include physical activity in your daily life. Adults should be active for at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) every week. Find out more in benefits of exercise.

Overweight, obese or very obese

If you’re in any of these ranges, you’re heavier than is healthy for someone of your height. Carrying extra weight can put you at increased risk of heart disease, stroke, type2 diabetes and some cancers.

Get free support from an adult weight management service in Blackpool:

There’s lots of information, advice and support on the NHS Choices website that can help you:

Healthy eating image

Food and diet contains information and advice on healthy eating.

Fitness image

Health & fitness gives you info on how much exercise to do and how to get fit for free.

Lose weight image

Lose weight has information and advice on achieving a healthy weight.

You can also talk to your GP or practice nurse. They can offer advice on lifestyle changes, and may refer you to a weight loss group or discuss other treatments. Find out more in How your GP can help.

Children

For Blackpool children aged 5 to 11 who are overweight, there is a free weight management programme called Making Changes. Visit the Making Changes website for more information and to register for the programme.

Eating healthily

Whether you are a healthy weight or not, it’s important to eat nutritious food.

A balanced diet is good for your physical and mental wellbeing, and protects against many diseases throughout life.

NHS Live Well (Food and Diet)