Getting started on a healthy weight gain or weight loss journey can be tough. Maybe you are looking to get some new muscle mass this New Year or perhaps drop some of that post-holiday weight.
A good measure for if you are in a healthy weight zone is BMI, or Body Mass Index, which is a measure of an individual's weight in connection to their height. BMI is often used by health professionals to give an idea of if that person is in a healthy weight zone. The four ranges for BMI are underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity.
BMI is a pretty useful instrument for checking in on many health risk factors. Having too high of a BMI can contribute to a higher risk of Type 2 Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, and higher risks for many other Cardiovascular Problems such as Heart Disease. On the opposite end of the spectrum, too low of a BMI can be a contributor to malnutrition, Osteoporosis, and Anemia.[1]
You can find your BMI index through this BMI calculator and see where you fall on the Weight Index.
Ideal Weight Index
- Below 18.5 - Underweight
- 18.5 - 24.9 - Healthy Weight
- 25.0 - 29.9 - Overweight
- Above 29.9 - Obese
If your BMI is higher than you would like, don’t worry. Even a 5%-10% decrease in your current body weight can have a significant impact on your risk factors and energy. [2] One of the greatest ways to start finding your healthy weight is to set realistic goals. Say if you are a person who weighs 200 lbs and you want to lose start by losing 5% of your weight - that is only 10 lbs and can cut your risks for diseases like Type 2 Diabetes by up to 50%. [3] Meeting those small double goals not only rewards you for small changes but gives you great milestones to reach for.
How Gut Biome Affects Metabolism
Did you know there are about 100 Trillion bacteria that help your digestive system get its job done? There is growing evidence that the right mix of bacteria in your gut could be the secret weapon to helping you make good choices in food and therefore staying slim. Having a fiber-heavy diet is a great way to make sure that the excellent gut bacteria get the upper hand in the fight for the microbiome. [4]
However, having a diet that heavily features heavily fatty foods with lots of oils can rapidly change the way that your gut biome works. Probiotic Supplements and Probiotic packed foods also give the good bacteria in your gut and thrive. If you want to give your gut health a little boost, our Probiotic Blend is full of the good bacteria to get your digestive system the support it deserves.
Like before any new diet or exercise regime, make sure to consult with a doctor or a dietitian for the perfect plan to fit your goals.