BMI (Body Mass Index)
A BMI calculator uses your height and weight to work out if your weight is healthy. You can check your BMI below:
BMI calculator | Check your BMI – NHS | Please fill in your details (www.nhs.uk)
Being Underweight
If you are not getting enough nutrition to maintain a healthy weight, your muscles can become weaker. This can mean that the muscles that you use for breathing do not work as well which can lead to problems with your breathing and make you more likely to have chest infections. It also means that you are less able to fight infections if you do get one.
If you lose weight without meaning to, it can be a sign that you are unwell, you should speak to your GP if you are losing weight and are not sure why.
Some people find it difficult to eat enough to maintain a healthy weight, speak to your GP or Dietician if you think you need help with maintaining a healthy weight.
Being Overweight
Being overweight increased your risk of many health conditions, including ones which can affect your chest health such as:
Joint aches and pains
How can you lose weight?
Losing weight takes time. The healthcare professionals involved with your care can provide encouragement and advice about how to manage your weight and build healthy lifestyle habits
NHS The Eatwell Guide – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
British Dietetic Association All Food Fact pages | British Dietetic Association (BDA)