Weight management
Being overweight increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. Patients who are underweight are at greater risk of osteoporosis and fertility problems.
Guidelines
- Energy used equals energy consumed.
- Women: around 2000 calories a day and a waist to hip ratio of less than 0.85.
- Men: around 2500 calories a day and a waist to hip ratio of less than 1.
- Body Mass Index of 18.5 to 24.9.
To calculate BMI:
- divide weight (kg) by height (m) squared, an online BMI calculator can be found on the NHS website (opens in new window)
To calculate waist to hip ratio:
- divide the circumference of the narrowest point of the waist by the widest point of the hips and buttocks
Page last reviewed: February 06, 2024
Next review due: February 06, 2025