Focus on Health – Not Weight

We live in a world that thinks being thin means being healthy. This is not always the case.

Some people who are thin are not healthy because they may eat poorly and not get enough nutrients to keep them healthy. They may have health conditions like high blood pressure, or may not exercise.

Some people with extra weight can be healthy if they eat well, exercise and have healthy blood pressure, blood sugar and blood cholesterol. These are better indicators of health than weight.

Being healthy isn’t about reaching a “certain number” on the scale. The number on the scale is only part of the picture. Different people can weigh different amounts and they can all be healthy. Healthy people come in a variety of body types, shapes, and sizes.

What can you do?

• Focus on your health and not on losing weight or weight loss diets.
• Do what you can to be healthy.
• Set realistic goals.
• Make small gradual changes in your lifestyle that can make a big difference to your health.
• Make choices that support healthy eating and being more physically active

Services related to this information:

• Contact your Public Health Nurse.
• 811 HealthLine (Newfoundland & Labrador) – Call 811 or 1-888-709-2929 / TTY 1-888-709-3555.