People have different body types, shapes and sizes so there's no single number that's the right weight for everyone. Instead, there is a range of weights that is considered healthy. 

 

Unfortunately, more people than ever before are overweight or obese. Being overweight and obese increases the risk for many health problems including heart disease, stroke, some cancers, diabetes, osteoarthritis and sleep apnea. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight by eating healthy and being active is your best defence to reduce the risk of many of these conditions.  

 

On the other hand, being underweight can increase the risk for health problems as well, such as malnutrition, anemia and osteoporosis.

 

Explore the following sections to learn more about healthy weights at different stages of life.

 

Adults: Learn about the connection between body weight and health, fad diets, and strategies to help you reach and maintain a healthy body weight.

 

Pregnancy: Find out the importance of weight gain in pregnancy and how much weight to gain for a healthy baby.    

 

Children: Information for parents on children and body weight and fostering a positive body image