Weight management

Being overweight increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. Patients who are underweight are at greater risk of osteoporosis and fertility problems.

Guidelines

Energy used equals energy consumed.
Women, around 2000 calories a day and a waist to hip ratio of less than 0.85.
Men, around 2500 calories a day and a waist to hip ratio of less than 1.
Body mass index (BMI) of 18.5 to 24.9.

To calculate BMI:

divide weight (kilogram) by height (metre) squared, an online body mass index calculator can be found on the NHS website (opens in new window)

To calculate waist to hip ratio:

divide the circumference of the narrowest point of the waist by the widest point of the hips and buttocks

Page last reviewed: December 16, 2024
Next review due: December 16, 2025

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