Analyzing Body Weight
Healthy weight is defined as a Body Mass Index (BMI) equal to or greater than 19 and less than 24.9 among all
people aged 20 or over. To determine body mass index, divide
weight in kilograms (2.2 lbs. = 1 kg) by height in meters
squared (39.4 ins. = 1 m).
Click here to check your BMI.
A woman possessing
a BMI equal to or greater than 25 and less than 29.9, is
considered overweight with an increased risk for
cardiovascular disease and type II Diabetes.
Obesity is defined as a body mass index
(BMI) equal to or greater than 30, which approximates 30 pounds
of excess weight. This category can be further divided into
three depending on the body mass index, Mild Obesity with a BMI
of 30-34.9, Moderate Obesity--35-39.9(BMI) and finally Extreme
Obesity with a BMI of >40.
Another
common way of analyzing body weight is the use of Waist-to-Hip ratio,
WHR is calculated as follows:
WHR = Waist Circumference ÷ Hip Circumference, a desirable WHR
is <0.80 for women. A waist-to-hip ratio of 1.0 or higher is
considered "at risk" or in the danger zone for undesirable
health consequences, such as heart disease and other ailments
connected with being overweight.
Measuring waist
circumference is a common measure used to assess abdominal
fat content. The presence of excess body fat in the abdomen,
when out of proportion to total body fat, is considered an
independent predictor of risk factors and ailments associated
with obesity. Women are at risk who have a waist measurement
greater than 35 inches (88 cm).
Other tools
available for analyzing body weight are:
Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA),
Bioelectrical Impedance Spectroscopy (BIS), Bone Dimensions,
Circumference Measurements, Computed Tomography (CT), presence
of Creatinine in blood and urine, Dual-energy X-ray
Absorptiometry (DXA), Hydrodensitometry, Isotope Dilution,
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Measuring
methylhistidine in the urine, Near Infrared (NIR)
Interactance, Neutron Activation Analysis, Skinfold Calipers,
Ultrasound, each having their share of advantages and
limitations.
Excess weight
places women at risk of developing serious health problems. A
successful weight loss and healthy weight management depend on
sensible goals and expectations. Most overweight women should
lose weight gradually. For safe and healthy weight loss, try not
to exceed a rate of two pounds per week. Sometimes, people with
serious health problems associated with obesity may have
legitimate reasons for losing weight rapidly. If so, a
physician's supervision is required.