I know how much I weigh, but I am not sure if my weight is healthy for me. How can I tell?

Stepping on a scale is the first part of determining your weight; however, people often do not know what to do next. The easiest thing to do with your weight is to calculate your body mass index (BMI). BMI is simply a weight measurement tool. Calculating your BMI will help you determine which weight category you fit into best. To calculate your BMI, click here.

 

I am afraid to talk to my doctor about my weight because they are overweight themselves. What should I do?

This is a very common issue. The easiest thing to do is to keep the topic on yourself. Don’t say, “I know you know how I feel because you’re overweight too.” Simply stick to yourself and share thoughts and ask questions that you know impact your health. For a free tool kit to help you talk to your doctor, click here.

 

I calculated my BMI and it says I am overweight, almost obese, but I don’t have any health conditions. Does this mean I am healthy?

Good question. There are a lot of people in your situation. Technically, right now you’re only affected by excess weight, but research suggests that later on in life your weight may impact your health by causing such issues as diabetes, hypertension, etc. The best thing to do is to talk to a healthcare professional about your weight.

 

My spouse’s weight is starting to concern me. How do I talk to them about it?

Weight can be a sensitive topic for almost anyone. Talking to a loved-one about it can be even more difficult. To find out more about loved-ones and weight, click here.

 

I know my weight and according to the BMI scale, I am considered normal. Does that mean I am healthy?

That’s excellent you are considered normal weight. To best gauge your overall health in relation to weight, you should speak with a healthcare professional. Even though your weight may be okay now, it is important to continually monitor your weight.

 

I eat pretty much anything I want and don’t seem to gain weight. Why?

Well, generally speaking, you may have a metabolism that allows you to eat more and not necessarily gain excess weight. It is important, though, that you eat healthy foods that provide adequate vitamins and nutrients. It’s best to stick with your daily recommendations for your overall health. The most important thing to remember is that you must keep an eye on your weight long-term and always monitor your weight status. This is the key to preventing health complications due to weight later in life.

 

Do I need a blood test to help determine the implications of my weight?

Excellent question.  A blood test is a great tool for you and a healthcare professional to determine many health implications because of your excess weight.  Blood tests can help determine your thyroid levels, cholesterol levels and much more. It is important that you get routine physicals, as this is a great time to get blood work drawn and talk to a healthcare professional about your weight.

 

I know my weight and want to start doing something to lose weight. What can I do?

Starting any weight-loss program can be intimidating. The best thing you can do is go to a healthcare professional and talk with them about your weight and determine what weight-loss option is best for you.

 

I’ve been overweight all my life and it really depresses me. I feel like there’s no hope for me. Can you help?

Excess weight can be a difficult thing to deal with. The first thing you want to do is to begin assessing your weight. Once you have determined your weight status, you can then begin to combat your weight issues and depression issues. The emotional side effects of weight often lead people to depression. Talk to a healthcare professional about your depression. You may also want to  find a release of some sort to help you cope, such as a hobby or exercise. Exercise has been proven to increase endorphin levels, which help you feel better.

 

It is important that you don’t give up. There are millions of people in the U.S. in your shoes, and you are not alone in your feelings. You may also want to try to find a support group/system in your local area to help.

 

I can see that my child is affected by excess weight. What can I do?

Excess weight and children is a tough subject. Sometimes coming right out and talking to your child about weight can be embarrassing or make them want to eat unhealthy foods to cope with the embarrassment. When addressing weight issues with your child, it is most important to let them know that you care about their weight because of their health. Children, just as adults, need to understand that weight is important because of their health, and not because of what their friends think or how they look. Jump on over to our Kids Corner to learn more about children and excess weight.

 

I know I need to do something about my weight, but I don’t have insurance and cannot afford going to a healthcare professional. Any suggestions?

Absolutely! Addressing your weight doesn’t always mean high costs. We must say though that we do encourage you to speak with a healthcare professional to at least develop an initial weight-loss plan. There are many great resources out there to help you with weight-loss.

 

Do you have a question that you’d like answered? Simply email your question to info@yourweightmatters.org and we’ll answer you soon!

 

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Weight FAQ's