Weight Management

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What is a healthy weight?

A healthy weight is the weight at which you feel good about yourself and have energy for work and play. It's also one that lowers your risk for health problems.

Why pay attention to your weight?

Staying at a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for your health. It can help prevent serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Eating healthy foods and being more active also can help you feel better and have more energy.

What can you do to get to a healthy weight and stay there?

If you want to get to a healthy weight and stay there, making healthy lifestyle changes will often work better than dieting. These steps can help.

  • Eat healthy foods. On most days, eat a variety of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and lean meats. All foods, if eaten in moderation, can be part of healthy eating. Even sweets can be okay.
  • Be active. When you're active, you burn calories. This makes it easier to reach and stay at a healthy weight. Try to be active for at least 1 hour every day.
  • Change your thinking. When you're trying to reach a healthy weight, changing how you think about certain things may help. Here are some ideas:
    • Don't compare yourself to others. Healthy bodies come in all shapes and sizes.
    • Pay attention to how hungry or full you feel.
    • Focus on improving your health instead of dieting.

Current as of: October 7, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 7, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.