Maintaining a healthy weight may reduce the risk of many chronic diseases. It may also help you move better and stay mentally sharp. If you are underweight, overweight, or obese, you are at risk for certain health problems. Ask your health care provider about a healthy weight for you. If you start to gain or lose weight and do not know why, your health care provider can tell you if this change is healthy for you.
Health Risks of Being Underweight
- poor memory
- decreased immunity
- osteoporosis (bone loss)
- decreased muscle strength
- hypothermia (lowered body temperature)
Health Risks of Being Overweight or Obese
- type 2 diabetes
- high blood pressure
- high blood cholesterol
- coronary heart disease
- some types of cancer
- gallbladder disease
If you already have one or more of these conditions, ask your health care provider if a modest weight loss (5 to 10 percent of your body weight) could help you feel better or need less medicine.
If you need to lose weight, make sure that you reduce your total calories, but do not reduce your nutrient intake. Do not try to lose weight unless your health care provider tells you to.