You might think that by the time you reach old age, watching your weight wouldn’t be as important as it once was. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Successful weight management is simply about balancing the amount of kilojoules we take in with the amount we expend in our daily activities.

Your ideal weight is generally one that gives you a BMI (Body Mass Index) of between 18.5 and 24.9.

It’s also worth checking your waist measurements. The distribution of weight, as much as your overall weight itself, is an important factor in determining a healthy weight.

Run a tape measure around your waist at the largest part (usually at the belly-button). If your waist measurement is less than 80cm for women or 94cm for men you are more likely to be at a health weight. A waist measurement of greater than 80cm or 94 cm could mean you are outside your healthy weight range.

Finally, remember the most effective way to manage our weight is making long-term lifestyle choices that include healthy eating and exercise.