Healthy weight

Most developed countries have seen an increase in the number of people who are overweight or obese and the trend is accelerating. Women gain around five to seven kilograms per decade on average as they age. Particularly concerning is the number of young women who are gaining excess weight, increasing the risk of preventable disease occurring in earlier years. Obesity represents a major health issue in women due to its association with altered sensitivity to insulin, negative implications for reproductive health and infertility, higher obstetric risks, gestational diabetes, as well as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and some types of cancer.

Maintaining a healthy weight throughout the different stages of life involves a number of challenges for many women. Even within the healthy weight range, weight gain increases the risks to women’s health. The prevention of excess weight gain is therefore important in all women at all ages.

Preventing weight gain

Preventing weight gain is as relevant to women who are within the healthy weight range as it is for those who are overweight or obese. Preventing weight gain and maintaining a healthy weight is potentially easier, less expensive and more effective than managing established obesity. Read more...