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OVERWEIGHT/OBESITY
For adults, overweight and obesity ranges are determined by using weight and height to calculate a number called the “body mass index” (BMI). BMI is used because, for most people, it correlates with their amount of body fat.
For adults, overweight and obesity ranges are determined by using weight and height to calculate a number called the “body mass index” (BMI). BMI is used because, for most people, it correlates with their amount of body fat.
An adult who has a BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight. An adult who has a BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese. The more overweight a person is, the higher their risk for CVD. Overweight also increases the risks for: stroke, congestive heart failure, gallbladder disease, arthritis, breathing problems, breast, colon, and other cancers.
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Drinking lots of water, eating less fat, eating smaller portions, losing weight, and limiting alcoholic and high-calorie beverages can all help lower your risk of being overweight/obese. The following is a BMI chart of the numbers you should know:
| BMI Classification |
BMI Value |
Underweight |
<= 18.5 |
Normal Weight |
18.5 – 24.9 |
Overweight |
25 – 29.9 |
Obesity (Class 1) |
30 – 34.9 |
Obesity (Class 2) |
35 – 39.9 |
Extreme Obesity (Class 3) |
40 |
Click here to calculate your own BMI |
NHLBI: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/guidelines/obesity/e_txtbk/txgd/414.htm |
