How much do you weigh? We cringe whenever we hear this question. Often we would rather hide in a corner than answer. However, despite what all the magazines and TV shows portray, a healthy and ideal weight is a lot more obtainable than we think. There are six factors that determine if you are at a healthy weight. They are BMI, waist circumference, age, height, sex and bone density.
BMI
BMI stands for Body Mass Index. It is a measure of the body fat based on height. To calculate it you take your mass in kilograms divided by the square of your height in meters. Or if you don’t want to do that much math you can check out this BMI calculator from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
After you find your number you can then plug it into these categories and see where you fall.
- Less than 18.5 = underweight
- 18.5-24.9= healthy weight
- 25-29.9= overweight
- 30 or higher= Obesity
Here is a chart that outlines these different ranges.
Waist Circumference
The CDC determined that the belly fat is some of the most dangerous fat stored in the body. That is why they encourage a measurement of the waist’s circumference. To measure it correctly, stand upright and wrap a tape measure around your body, just above the hipbones. Breathe out and take your measurement. The CDC advises 35 inches or less for women and 40 inches or less for men.
Other Factors
Age, height, sex and bone density are also factors that affect ideal weight. By applying these values to your calculations you will get more personalized and accurate results. For example, soccer players may weigh more because of their muscles but that doesn’t make them less healthy. It is important to take into account these extra factors when determining your healthy weight.
Now you can go find out if you are at a healthy weight! Remember before you start making drastic changes in your life, talk to your doctor. Although they are good indicators, even these factors are not perfect in determining the healthiest weight for you. If you have the desire to make changes to your diet and reach a better weight, come visit us at Mountain Peaks. We have amazing doctors that will give you the time and attention you need.
Call us at 801-724-9840.