The prevalence of obesity in the United States is regularly a part of media discussions. It's difficult to find a woman's magazine without an article discussing ways to lose weight or ways to prevent weight gain. While the focus does sell magazines, it is also important information for readers because maintaining a healthy body weight can help improve your overall health.
Body Mass Index
A healthy body weight is one at which you are not at increased risk for weight-related problems. Body mass index, or BMI, is a good indicator of healthy weight. BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. BMI between 19 and 24.9 is considered to be ideal BMI and an indicator of healthy body weight. Even in the ideal range, however, you may still be at health risk if you are not exercising or eating well.
Waist Circumference
Measuring your waist is an effective way of determining how much fat you have stored in your mid-section. A healthy waist circumference is 40 inches for men and 36 inches for women. Larger waist circumferences are associated with higher risk for heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. Having a larger waist circumference is often referred to as being "apple shaped."
Considerations
There is not one ideal weight for everyone. Using both the BMI calculation and the waist circumference can give you a general idea of your weight status. Having a BMI and weight circumference within the ideal range is a good indication that your weight is healthy. You should still continue to exercise and eat right. Having a BMI in the overweight or obese category with a large waist circumference is likely an indicator of an unhealthy body weight. It is not uncommon to have a high BMI but normal waist circumference. Your doctor can tell you if your weight is appropriate or puts you at risk for weight related problems.
Other Factors
Your doctor may need to perform several assessments to determine your healthy body weight. These assessments may include the skinfold thickness measurements, evaluations of diet, physical activity, family history and other health screenings, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. BMI is considered to be an ideal initial screening tool based on its cost, ease of use and ability to do a quick comparison of your score to the general population.
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