Maintaining a Healthy Weight

A BC study done in 2004 found that one in three boys and one in four girls in grades 4-6 were overweight or obese. That puts them at risk for health problems, not to mention issues with self-esteem and body image.

Lots of BC adults are packing extra pounds, too. In fact, in 2003, more than four in 10 of us were either overweight or obese.

That’s the bad news. So what about the good news?

The good news is that all kinds of little things can help us get to, and stay at a healthy weight – and families are the perfect place to set a good example. For lots of great ideas you can use to reach a healthy weight, click the links below.

Healthy Weight for Youth

Are you at a healthy weight? You sure about that? Because research shows that youth sometimes have a hard time recognizing when they’re too heavy – or too thin. For example, in a recent survey, 80 per cent of BC female youth were at a healthy weight – but fewer than 50 per cent thought they were.

Overweight and underweight both carry health risks. So why not find out exactly where you stand? Click the links below for more information on how to determine a healthy weight for you – and lots of great tips for getting there, and staying there.

Healthy Weight for Adults

Healthy bodies come in all shapes and sizes, and most of us will never look like athletes or models. But the things we can do to help maintain a healthy weight – like eating well and being physically active – are good for almost every aspect of our wellbeing.

What’s a healthy weight for you? Are you in that range already? The answers might surprise you: In a recent survey, 45 per cent of BC adults were at a healthy weight, but many of them thought they weren’t. Are you one of them? Or, are you maybe one of the 55 per cent who could use some help finding and maintaining a healthy weight?

Click the links below to help find the answers. You’ll find information on determining your healthy weight, along with tips for getting there – and staying there. For good.

Healthy Weight Resources:

Strategies for a Healthy Weight

Your Health Your Weight

Healthy Waists: Monitoring your waist size can help reduce your risk of developing health problems such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and high blood pressure.
and we'll send you a free ActNow BC waist circumference tape.

Eating Well With Canada's Food Guide

Translated Versions of Canada's Food Guide

Canada's Physical Activity Guide for Children and Youth

Canada's Physical Activity Guide to Healthy Active Living (PDF)

Dietitian Services @ Healthlink BC

Eat Well, Play Well at Home

Eat Well, Play Well at School

Heart and Stroke Foundation: Fast Foods and Eating Out

Alberta Health Services: Re-Think Your Drink