The Perfect Weight For Women

According to an article in the "Journal of the American Medical Association" the prevalence of obesity among women is 35.5 percent but the rate of increase seems to be slowing. Determining your perfect weight can be a challenge since women are all different shapes and sizes and many factors affect your weight, but there are some tools to help you find a healthy weight.

History

Height and weight tables were developed in the early 1800s for insurance companies. They were initially used to determine the risk of covering someone for insurance purposes. Over time, they have been revised and changed as the population has increased in average heights and weights as indicated by comparing the Metropolitan Height-Weight Table for 1983 and 1959. This is an indication that there isn't a perfect weight, instead there are average weights.

Methods

There are several ways to determine if you are a healthy weight. Height and weight charts based on your body frame size are available.

In 1964, Dr. GJ Hamwi developed an easy formula to estimate your ideal body weight. For women, the first 5 feet in height should be 100 pounds. Then, add 5 pounds for every additional inch. Your weight should be within 10 percent of that number. For example, if you are 5 feet 5 inches tall, you should weigh 125 pounds plus or minus 12.5 pounds.

Body mass index, or BMI, is a more accurate way to determine a healthy weight. It is a calculation that uses your height and weight to determine body fatness. If your BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9 you are considered normal weight. If your BMI is higher than 25 you are considered overweight and over 30 is obese.

Another measurement you can use is your waist size. Use a tape measure to measure your waist just above your hip bone. If the measurement is more than 35 inches you may be at risk for obesity.

Considerations

Every woman's body is built differently. Your weight can be affected by your body composition or how much fat or muscle you have. Many athletes have higher weights and BMIs because they have more muscle which weighs more. If you are concerned about your weight, consult your health care provider or a registered dietitian for suggestions.

Drawbacks

There are many health risks associated with an unhealthy weight. Diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and some types of cancer, are just some of the diseases associated with obesity. According to the National Cancer Institute, postmenopausal, obese women have higher rates of breast cancer than healthy weight women.

Although it is less prevalent, being underweight also has some health risks such as malnutrition and anemia.

Benefits

The CDC states that even a 5 or 10 percent weight loss can have health benefits. Blood sugar and blood pressure improves, cholesterol can be reduced and some women can even reduce the amount of medication they take. Not to mention you will feel better, look better and be able to be more active.