Weight Management

A healthy weight is essential for your overall physical health. Weight affects our immunity, risk of disease, fertility and our mental health.

How does weight affect wellbeing?

If you are overweight or obese, you risk developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. Overweight men may also suffer from erectile dysfunction and fertility problems.

If you are underweight, you can have a weakened immune system, fragile bones, feel tired and for women, it can affect your menstrual cycle and chances of conceiving, men may also experience fertility problems.

Weight is not only dependent on a healthy diet, it is also affected by the amount of physical activity you do, illness and disease and mental health issues. It is important to look into both your weight and any underlying causes that cause you to gain or lose weight.

How can I improve my wellbeing?

If you are within a healthy weight range, you only need to think about maintaining your healthy diet and making sure to stay active daily. Read more about Healthy Eating and exercise.

To lose weight safely the keys to success are:

• Make realistic changes to your diet and activity, so it becomes part of your regular routine
• Make long-term changes that will result in a steady rate of weight loss
• Aim to lose 0.5kg to 1kg (1lb to 2lb) a week, until you achieve your healthy weight target
• If you are obese, your GP will be able to refer you to Healthier Futures to start your personalised health plan with help from professionals.

To gain weight safely the keys to success are:

• Aim to gain weight gradually
• Avoid high-calorie foods full of saturated fat and sugar, as this increases body fat rather than lean body mass
• Have regular meals and find out more on Healthy Eating

Use the services below to find support

Healthier Futures

NHS Live Well

For further signposting information on a wide range of topics please visit  https://www.mecclink.co.uk/yorkshire-humber/