The Definition of Overweight

The majority of individuals that are overweight or obese know it.  However, experts typically evaluate body weight based on a complex formula.  This complex formula is known as the body mass index (BMI).  The BMI is actually calculated using a particular individual’s height and weight.  This calculation is used as a standard, but does not measure the presence of body fat directly.

However, research has shown that BMI can be correlated with direct measures of body fat, and is quick, simple, and inexpensive.  BMI is commonly used as a diagnostic tool to diagnose weight problems in adults.  BMI is not accurate for all individuals, particularly athletic individuals.

Body Mass Index

The formula for the calculation of BMI is relatively simple.  Take your weight in pounds and divide it by your height in inches squared.  Multiply this number by 703.  This will give yield a number.  If your number is 18.5 or less, you are considered underweight.  If the BMI is calculated between 18.5 and 24.9, your weight is considered to be normal.  BMI calculations ranging from 25.0-29.9 are considered to be overweight.  All BMI calculations above 30.0 are considered obese.

However, the use of BMI alone may not be able to produce accurate results.  If you are unsure of your weight or have questions, consult your primary care physician.  Measurement of the waistline is also helpful.  Women with a waistline of greater than 35 inches, and men with a waistline of greater than 40 inches, are considered to be overweight.

Weight Loss & Management

Weight loss is an achievable goal.  It is important to remember that losing weight is typically much harder than it was to gain.  Weight loss is only possible through burning extra calories or eating fewer calories.  A combination of both is preferable.  A healthy weight loss program contains certain characteristics.

• Goals:  Reasonable and realistic goals for weight loss are important.  The time frame for weight loss is also important.  Losing weight takes time. It is not healthy to rush weight loss.
• Calories:  Calories count.  Portions should be controlled and you should be particularly sure to get proper amounts of nutrition.
• Exercise:  Regular physical activity is the key to weight loss.  Exercise is also associated with many other health benefits.
• Education:  Educate yourself and strive to make changes in your life that will remain even after you finish losing weight.  This will make your weight loss easier to maintain.
• Encouragement:  Do not give up.  Even a small amount of weight loss is a step in the right direction.  You will make diet mistakes, eat one cookie too many, not work out one day, and that is ok.  Remember that nobody is perfect, you are a beautiful person no matter your weight, and continue to strive to make your body healthier.

The Connections: Weight and Cholesterol

There is much scientific evidence to support the fact that typically, being overweight does increase overall cholesterol levels within the blood.  Individuals that are overweight also tend to have higher levels of LDL cholesterol, higher overall cholesterol levels, and lower HDL cholesterol levels.  The presence of extra weight on the body is also responsible for increasing overall risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.

Resources:

http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/guide/heart-disease-overview-facts

http://www.ehealthmd.com/library/lowercholesterol/LC_weight.html

http://www.fda.gov/fdac/features/1999/199_chol.html

http://www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/