Determining Healthy Weight

Are you underweight, Normal weight, Overweight, or Obese? 


What is the difference between overweight and obesity?


Overweight is present when fat accumulation is between 1%-19% of their desirable weight (the weight range deemed appropriate for people of a specific gender, age, and frame). 


Obesity is present when fat accumulation produces a body weight that is more than  20% the persons desirable weight (the weight range deemed appropriate for people of a specific gender, age, and frame size). 


So what is your desirable weight based on your age, height, gender, and frame size? We use Height-weight tables or the most common guideline, BMI.  Body Mass Index is determined by dividing weight (Kg) by the square of height (in Meters).


For Example: Lets examine the following individual


Weight: 71.36 kg
Height: 1.87 meters  


Simple math will tell us that the square root of 74 (height) is 8.6
Therefore, BMI = weight (71.36 kg) divided by the square height (3.49) =    20.4 


After this calculation has been made you can then refer to the BMI chart to determine your weight classification.  Your BMI will also give you an indication of potential health risks associated with your classification. 

Classification                       BMI Category                         Risk of Developing health problems


Underweight                        > 18.5                                        Increased                    

Normal Weight                    18.5- 24.9                                  Least

Overweight                          25-29.9                                      Increased

Obese Class 1                      30.0-34.9                                   High

Obese Class 2                      35.0-39.9                                   Very High

Obese Class 3                      >40.0                                         Extremely high

Based on the individual in the example they fall within a healthy BMI range (20.4).  


What is your BMI?  Try calculating it.  Remember, just divide your weight in kilograms by the square of your height in meters. To calculate your BMI quickly click on the link below. 


www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/


Remember BMI is not a direct measure of body fat.  However, it is the most widely used indicator to determine health risk associated with under and overweight people.  


Do not be discouraged by your BMI.  If your BMI indicates you are overweight or obese, take this as a challenge.  You can change your BMI with Clean Eating and regular Physical Activity!!!