Summary
Maintaining a Healthy Weight is one of the health factors outlined in Life’s Essential 8™, the key measures for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health, as defined by the American Heart Association. Better cardiovascular health helps lower the risk for heart disease, stroke and other major health problems. Key details listed below.
Stay in the Know - Your doctor or health care team can help you figure out if your weight is healthy for your age and body. A healthy weight helps your brain and heart function better.
- Learn Your BMI
- Body Mass Index (BMI) is a number that relates your weight to your height.
- Optimal BMI is less than 25. Less than 18.5 is underweight. You can calculate BMI online or see your health care professional.
- Understanding Calories
- Calories is how we talk about energy. They are the energy our body gets from foods and what we drink, which it uses for things like moving and breathing.
- Eating too many calories and not being active enough can lead to weight gain.
- Ideas for Weight Management
- Increase the amount of fiber you eat and the water you drink.
- Add protein to your breakfast. Protein will help you feel full for longer.
- Avoid fast food when possible.
- Read nutritional labels for nutrition and calorie content. Pay attention to the number of serving sizes in each package.
Don't miss our Tips for Success found here and the Fact Sheet infographic and other multimedia on the right column.
How to lower your risk for cardiovascular disease
- Know your numbers and follow the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8™
- Health Behaviors: Eat better, be active, quit tobacco, get healthy sleep.
- Health Factors: Manage weight, control cholesterol, manage blood sugar, manage blood pressure.
Please consult with your physician or healthcare team about what is best for your health.
Helpful Links:
- Statements & Guidelines | Statistics
- Embargo and Recording Policies
- Images | General B-roll and Animations
- Association Newsroom | @HeartNews
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries and American Heart Association Expert Perspective:214-706-1173; AHAcommunications@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
