Your health is one of the most important factors in your quality of life, and maintaining a healthy weight is one way to keep conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke and heart disease at bay. We know that more than 2 in 3 adults in the US are overweight or obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Yet it can be challenging to understand how your body weight is tied to your disease risk.
The specialists at NGPG Bariatric & Metabolic Institute use several diagnostic tools to determine a person’s healthy weight range and whether they are obese or overweight.
Waist Circumference. This simple diagnostic measurement is an indicator of body fat distribution, which can identify individuals at increased risk for obesity-related health conditions. Women with a waist circumference of 35 inches or more and men with a waist circumference of 40 inches or more may be considered obese. Body Composition Scale. This technically advanced tool calculates a person’s percentage of body fat, lean muscle, weight and distribution of weight. It’s a very useful tool to help monitor fat loss while maintaining lean muscle. Body Mass Index. This equation is often used to diagnose those who are obese or overweight. The measure is calculated based on a person’s height and weight as an estimate of body fat – and acts as a gauge for your risk of health issues that often occur with increased body fat. In simple terms, the higher a person’s BMI, the higher their risk of other health conditions.
|
Category |
BMI |
|---|---|
|
Underweight |
Below 18.5 |
|
Normal |
18.5–24.9 |
|
Overweight |
25.0–29.9 |
|
Obesity |
30.0 and Above |
Keep in mind that BMI results don’t take muscle mass into consideration – meaning someone who has lots of muscle and very little fat may be classified as overweight. It may also underestimate body fat in older adults and those who have lost muscle mass.
*When compared to Caucasians of the same BMI, Asians have 3 to 5 percent higher total body fat. Asians are considered overweight or obese at a lower BMI. Review the BMI for Asian Adults in the United States chart.
Calculate Your BMI
This BMI calculator and weight status categories are for adults ages 20 and older. Individuals with a BMI of 30 or above are considered obese and at risk for weight-related health conditions. Those with a BMI in the 25-29.9 range are considered overweight and also at risk. Enter your height and weight below to calculate your BMI.
Get Started
NGPG Bariatric & Metabolic Institute offers a comprehensive weight loss program designed to maximize each individual’s weight loss through surgical and non-surgical approaches. The bariatric team in our accredited weight loss center can help you determine the next right step for you and your health. For questions or to schedule an appointment, call 770-282-4996 or fill out the short contact form on this page.