The most common and accepted measurements used to diagnose obesity are the Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference measurements. While these measures allow you to put your weight concerns into perspective, it is recommended that you make an appointment with a medical health advisor.
They will be able to suggest a weight loss program tailored to your needs as well as do any necessary tests to screen for weight-related complications. In addition to these measurements, your doctor will probably ask a number of questions to help confirm a diagnosis and possible causes of obesity. You will
probably be asked about your medical history, the age you started gaining weight, family weight and medical history, eating and exercise habits, nicotine and alcohol use, and previous experience with weight loss attempts. Your doctor may also do blood tests to check thyroid functioning, along with glucose and cholesterol levels to determine whether any obesity-related conditions are present such as diabetes.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
The BMI uses a formula of weight and height in order to measure body fat. Technically speaking this formula calculates the individual's body weight divided by the square of their height. The BMI allows you to assess how much an individual's body weight differs from what is normal or expected for a person of his or her height.
Underweight: BMI below 18.5
Healthy weight: BMI between 18.5-24.9
Overweight: BMI between 25-29.9
Obese: BMI 30 or higher
Consider consulting your health care practitioner if your BMI is above 25, and
especially if it is above 30, so that you can discuss a weight loss program that suits
your needs.
Waist Circumference
Waist circumference, measured in inches, is a good indicator of health concerns related to obesity and excess weight. People tend to carry their extra pounds in different areas of the body, and some areas tend to be more dangerous than others. Those who carry most of their body fat around the waist or the upper body (apple shaped) tend to be at higher risk for health concerns than those who carry most of their body fat around the hips, thighs and lower body (pear shaped). Medical experts have noted that people who carry their excess weight predominantly around their abdominal region put more strain on vital internal
organs and this increases the risks associated with a number of the serious health conditions relating to obesity. For this reason, a simple waist measurement willhelp determined the severity of your weight concerns.
● Waist circumference for women should be below 35 inches.
● Waist circumference for men should be below 40 inches.
If your waist circumference is above the given measurements, you may be at risk
for medical complications and should seek professional guidance on how to lose
weight.
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