Healthy Weight

What is a Healthy Weight?

Extra weight can increase harmful hormones in the body, such as insulin and estrogen, that cause inflammation and other biological effects. Extra weight is also linked to development and recurrence of some cancers (colon, esophageal, breast, uterine, and kidney).

So, what is the best weight for everyone? There is not a magical number that everyone should weigh to be healthy. Body Mass Index (BMI) can be used to determine your healthy weight range by comparing your current weight and height. A healthy BMI range is between 18.5 and 24.9. Click here to use the SurvivorSHINE BMI Calculator to determine if you are a healthy weight.

Ann's Story

I have always struggled with my weight, but I knew that I had to do better. Being a healthy weight might lessen my chances of getting cancer again. So, I made it happen! I ate and exercised myself to a healthier weight. I stopped drinking soda pop and switched to water. Most of all, I began to write down everything that I ate, BEFORE I ate it and counted my calories. It worked! Healthy eating and regular exercise is now a habit for me. I am excited about keeping the weight off.

* The individual pictured above is not the individual described in the story. The name and photo have been changed to protect privacy.