How To: Find your happy weight

Losing weight can be a battle, but why not be realistic about your goals rather than kill yourself striving for a size 0? A happier alternative to the cycle of weight loss and gain is to achieve a weight you and your doctor can both live with. In this tutorial, learn how to calculate your BMI and ways to figure what your "happy weight" is.

You Will Need:
• A calculator
• Your doctor
• Common sense
• Healthy eating and physical activity habits

Step 1: Calculate your body mass index
Calculate your body mass index (BMI) by multiplying your weight in pounds by 705, and then dividing the product by your height in inches squared.

Step 2: Evaluate your BMI score
Compare your BMI: a BMI between 19 and 25 is in the normal range. If your BMI is between 25 and 29, you are considered overweight and if your BMI is over 29, you are considered obese.

Step 3: Decide your ideal weight
Decide your ideal weight and determine how much weight you would like to gain or lose, using the BMI, common sense, and your doctor's advice.

Step 4: Develop healthy eating and physical activity habits
Develop healthy eating and physical activity habits to maintain a stable weight when you have achieved your ideal weight.

Tip: Avoid dieting unless you are seriously overweight or have medical reason for losing weight (such as having high blood pressure or being at high risk of heart disease).

Fact: Two-thirds of the US adults are overweight or obese.