Having a healthy weight, along with eating well and being physically active, may prevent some chronic diseases. Conversely, being overweight or obese is associated with some health risks, such as heart disease or type 2 diabetes.

Adults can use two measurements to determine if their weight is healthy. Keep in mind that weight is just one measurement used by health professionals to assess a person’s health. Other factors, such as tobacco use, unhealthy eating, physical inactivity, and your genetics can also impact your health.  

1. BMI
Adults aged 18 and over can use the Body Mass Index (BMI) to assess their weight. The BMI is a measure of your weight related to your height. BMI is not a direct measure of body fat or lean tissue, but it is, to date, the most widely investigated and most useful indicator of health problems in adults.  

For Adults
BMI less than 18.5 indicates underweight
BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 indicates normal weight
BMI over 25 indicates overweight
BMI over 30 indicates obesity

Aim for a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9. This is the range associated with the least health risks.

 Visit Health Canada’s website to calculate your BMI.

2. Waist Measurement-
Along with your BMI, your waist size can also be used to tell if your weight is a health risk. A high waist circumference, along with a high BMI (between 25 and 34.9) is associated with an increased risk for

• type 2 diabetes
• dyslipidemia (e.g. high blood cholesterol or triglycerides)
• high blood pressure
• heart disease

Visit the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s website for more information about how to measure your waist.

If you are concerned about your weight speak to your family doctor for more help.