am I overweight
FAQs, weight classification and BMI calculations

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Ask yourself the question, "Am I overweight?"

Adults are increasingly falling into the overweight or obese categories. If you fall into either category, you may be putting yourself at risk for various health problems.

Although we need some body fat for healthy bodily functions like providing energy and insulation, excess body fat puts you at an increased risk of disease.

Health problems such as diabetes, heart disease and stroke are linked to overweight and obesity.

However, these risks can be avoided with appropriate weight management.

 

BMI classifications for adults

The normal weight range for a person depends on several factors. BMI (Body Mass Index) is a height and weight-based measure that provides a standardized index for estimating body fat percentage.

This tool can help you determine if your weight is falling within a healthy range.

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How do I find my BMI?

You may be curious if you are one of the many adults who fall into the overweight or obese categories.

Adults can calculate their BMI by entering your height and weight in this BMI calculator.

Take a few minutes to calculate your BMI and compare it to the classification below.

 

BMI classification:

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Frequently asked questions about BMI classifications

If my BMI is high, am I overweight or obese?
It's important to note that a BMI calculation does not directly measure body fat, and results may vary based on body type and build.

For example, adults who are extremely muscular may have a high BMI when they actually have a healthy body fat percentage. However, for most people, BMI is a good general indicator of body fat.

 

What is the difference in BMI values between overweight and obese?

The range that falls under the overweight category in the BMI chart is from 25 to 29.9. If you fall into this category, it's important to make sure you're taking healthy steps to maintain or lose weight to prevent obesity.

A BMI of 30 or more is classified as obese. This means you are carrying far more body fat than is considered healthy for your height.

Falling into either category can be a factor in several health problems, including heart disease and stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney problems, and osteoarthritis.

In general, the higher your BMI, the greater your risk.

Luckily, with the right care and lifestyle changes, you can bring your weight into a healthy range that works for you.

Experts agree that by keeping your body fit and eating a healthy diet, many health problems can be prevented or minimized.

 

What are the causes of overweight and obesity?
There are various factors that can lead to overweight or obesity. However, the main theory is that people become overweight when they consistently consume more calories for the body to use as fuel.

Our diet tends to be high in calories in an environment where we are becoming less and less physically active. Weight can be more difficult to control as our metabolism slows down as we age.

There are a number of factors thought to affect weight gain:

• Poor diet and unwise food choices / too much processed food or takeout

• Insufficient physical activity / sedentary lifestyle

• genetics

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• Depression and other mood disorders that can lead to overeating

• Medications such as antidepressants and steroids

• Conditions such as hypothyroidism

• Lack of sleep – or too much sleep

Adults who are in the overweight category can easily slip into obesity. For this reason, monitoring behaviors that affect both physical and mental health is extremely important.

Even a small weight loss of 5% or more can have a positive effect on health, appearance and self-confidence.

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