Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important things we can do for both our health and our overall sense of wellbeing. As well as lowering the risk of illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes, it can also reduce the risk for many cancers.  

We know from research studies that maintaining a stable weight is more important than being thin. We also know that for people who are medically overweight, reducing weight by only 10% can immediately lower health risks, so a dramatic weight reduction is not required for better health. 

Keeping our weight stable also helps us to be able to enjoy life, to stay active and to feel good about ourselves, as well as helping with energy levels through the day. 

Many people have an inaccurate sense of whether they are within a healthy weight range. On the one hand, pressure to be too “thin” or having a negative body image, can cause a lot of harm; on the other, lack of understanding about the risks of carrying extra weight can also be a problem. And for everyone, seesawing weight loss/gain and chaotic eating patterns (e.g. on and off “diets” or food fads) is not helpful for stable body functioning. Seek advice and support from health professionals if in doubt about what your healthy weight range would be.  

Forming healthy habits
Changing old habits or forming new ones can be challenging.  The following links can help:   Successful new habits  |  Strengthening new habits