Briefly discuss considerations and ways to help determine whether your current weight is a healthful weight for you


A wide range of weights is compatible with good health. Within this range, the definition of desirable or healthful weight is up to the individual, depending on such factors as family history, occupation, physical and recreational activities, and personal preferences. To determine if your weight is a healthful weight for you:
1 . Calculate your body mass index (BMI).
2 . Determine if your fat distribution is associated with health risks. Measure your waist circumference by placing a tape measure around your waist just above your belly button.
3 . Is your weight affecting your health? Do you have any of these weight-related health problems or risk factors?
• Heart disease • High LDL-cholesterol • Osteoarthritis • Cigarette smoking
• Type 2 diabetes • Low HDL-cholesterol • Recurrent gallstones • Sedentary lifestyle
• High blood pressure • High triglycerides • Sleep disturbances
• Male > 45 years or postmenopausal female
4 . How does your current weight measure up to these considerations?
• If your BMI is acceptable for good health and if your waist measurement is not high, you will want to maintain this weight. If you need to lose weight or gain weight, consider the tips offered throughout this chapter for healthfully changing your weight.
• You should consider losing weight if:
Your BMI is 30 or greater.
Your BMI is 25 to 29 and you have two or more of the weight-related health problems or risk factors listed above.
Your waist circumference exceeds 40 inches (for men) or 35 inches (for women) and you have two or more weight-related health problems or risk factors.
• Weight loss is optional for you if your BMI is 25 to 29 and you do not have two or more weight-related health problems (particularly if your BMI is under 27 or you have large muscles and bones).

Nutritional Science

You might also like to view...

Low values of which of the following micronutrients are associated with inflammatory processes and poor immune function in the HIV-positive individual?

a. vitamin E b. pyroxidine c. zinc d. folic acid

Nutritional Science

Today, what percentage of Americans are classified as overweight?

A. 28 percent B. 45 percent C. 65 percent D. 74 percent

Nutritional Science

Mrs. Falwell is 5'4" and weighs 110 lbs. During the interview, she mentions she has lost "a lot of weight" over the past 5 months. She usually weighs 135 lbs. What is her %UBW?

A) ?25 B) ?81 C) ?120 D) ?123

Nutritional Science

An antibody is a type of protein that:

a. regulates pH balance in the body. b. transports lipids throughout the body. c. protects the body from viruses, bacteria, and other disease agents. d. regulates fluid balance in the body.

Nutritional Science