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.

Felicia's Story

My doctors stressed the importance of getting to a healthy weight. They told me that being overweight and inactive increases my chances of getting cancer. I lost weight because I’ve had cancer and I did not want it again. I stopped snacking on junk food and made a point to only eat raw vegetables between meals. Slowly I was even able to start exercising 2 to 3 times a day for just 5 minutes until I was able to work up to a 30-minute session. I feel so much better!

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