The ideal weight for any teenager is not a number, but a description: healthy. Maintaining a healthy weight during the teenage years is important in continuing long-term health through adulthood. Healthy weight in youth reduces the risk of heart problems, hypertension and high cholesterol later in life. Determining whether your teenager’s weight is healthy can be tricky, though. Unlike adult Body Mass Index, or BMI, which is based on weight and height, a teenager's BMI is based on weight, height and age. For instance, a 13-year-old boy with a BMI of 23 is considered overweight, but a 15-year-old boy with a BMI of 23 is considered healthy. The difference stems from natural changes in bone density, body fat and musculature as the teenager matures. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides two charts--one for boys and one for girls--that will help you determine whether your teenager’s current BMI, and therefore weight, is considered healthy.
How to Determine Your Teenager's Ideal Weight
Step 1
Have your doctor or school nurse determine your teenager’s weight and height. Ensure that the weight and height are accurate, as they are essential to finding your teenager’s BMI.
Step 2
Calculate your teenager’s BMI by dividing weight in pounds by height in inches, then dividing that result again by height in inches. Multiply that result by 703 to find the BMI. For instance, if your teenager weighs 130 pounds and is 5-foot-6, you would divide 130 pounds by 66 inches, which is 1.969, then divide that again by 66, which is .0298. Multiply .0298 by 703 to find a BMI of 20.98.
Step 3
Using the BMI percentile charts listed in the Resources, plot your teenager’s BMI score on the chart. Be sure to use the proper gender, as the charts differ for boys and girls. If your teenager’s BMI is between the 5th and 85th percentiles, he is considered to have a healthy weight and needs no change. If your teenager’s weight is above the 85th percentile or below the 5th percentile, proceed to step 4.
Step 4
If your teenager’s BMI is between the 85th and 95th percentiles, he is considered overweight. Above the 95th percentile is considered obese. Below the 5th percentile is considered underweight. In these cases, determine a weight loss or weight gain goal. Use steps 2 and 3 to determine whether that goal weight is considered healthy in terms of BMI. If so, create a plan to attain that goal weight. If not, readjust until the goal weight falls into a healthy BMI.
Tips and Warnings
- Be sure to encourage a healthy body image with your child, especially if your teenager is of healthy weight--or is underweight--and still wants to shed pounds. A good body image can prevent your teenager from developing eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia.
- If a weight loss plan is necessary for your teenager, consult your doctor for tips. Avoid fad diets and crash diets, as their results don’t last long-term.
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