A healthy weight should really be defined as the weight at which a person feels well and experiences a healthy life. There are many health risks associated with being overweight. Many of these conditions occur even in slightly overweight individuals. Generally speaking, a person’s weight is considered to be healthy when the BMI or Body Mass Index is between 18 and 25. If an individual has a BMI that is above 25 they would be considered to be overweight, although many people still feel reasonably healthy at this weight.

Feeling healthy still doesn't prevent your body from being at risk to developing health issues associated with weight gain. Issues such as elevated blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar can all be problems even in people who experience modest weight gain. Insulin resistance and an adverse series of conditions known as the "metabolic syndrome" can begin to develop.

Losing weight brings real health benefits and reduces risks of cardiovascular conditions and many other health problems. You should always consult your doctor before beginging any serious weight loss program.