Weight Management

British Columbia Specific Information

HealthLink BC, in collaboration with our partners, is reviewing our content to ensure health and weight-related messaging aligns with the evidence-base and contributes to efforts to reduce weight bias and stigma. 

Speak with your health care provider if you are concerned that your weight is affecting your health. If you have questions about or would like support with food and nutrition or call 
8-1-1 to speak with a registered dietitian or qualified exercise professional.

Overview

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 vegetables and fruits, whole grain foods, and protein foods. 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 do at least 2½ hours of moderate to vigorous activity every week.
  • 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.