DIET AND WEIGHT CONTROL One needs to understand some commonly used terms before discussing weight control. The term normal weight can mean average, desired, or standard. Normal wei... DIET AND WEIGHT CONTROL One needs to understand some commonly used terms before discussing weight control. The term normal weight can mean average, desired, or standard. Normal weight is that which is appropriate for the maintenance of good health for a particular individual at a particular time. The following is a simple method of determining one’s ideal body weight. It is known as the 'rule of thumb' method 1. Males assume 106 pounds for the first 5 feet (60 inches) and add 6 pounds for each inch over 60. 2. Females assume 100 pounds for the first 5 feet (60 inches) and add 5 pounds for each inch over 60. 3. Large-boned individuals of both sexes increase the first sum by 10%. 4. Small-boned individuals of both sexes decrease the first sum by 10%. This method is quick, but one must remember that it is only an estimate. Overweight can be defined as weight 10% to 20% above average. Obesity can be defined as excessive body fat, with weight 20% above average. Underweight is weight 10% to 15% below average. The medical standard used to define obesity is the body mass index (BMI). It is used to determine whether a person is at health risk from excess weight. The BMI is obtained by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared. Fewer health risks are associated with a BMI range of 19 to 25 than with BMI above or below that range. A pear-shaped body has a lower risk for disease than does the apple-shaped body. A waist-to-hip ratio also can give an indication of risk. This is determined by dividing the waist measurement by the hip measurement. A ratio greater than 1.0 in men and 0.8 in women indicates risk for disease. Body weight is composed of fluids, organs, fat, muscle, and bones, so large variation exists among people. In addition to height, one needs to consider age, physical condition, heredity, gender, and general frame size.
Understand the Problem
The text describes various concepts related to diet, weight control, obesity, and related health issues, along with methods for identifying and addressing these concerns. It includes information about dietary recommendations, health risks associated with different weight classifications, and the importance of physical condition and exercise.
Answer
Define normal weight for health; use 'rule of thumb' adjustments for height and bone size.
Define normal weight as weight appropriate for maintaining good health for an individual. Use the 'rule of thumb': for males, 106 lbs for the first 5 feet plus 6 lbs per inch over; for females, 100 lbs plus 5 lbs per inch over. Adjust by 10% for bone size.
Answer for screen readers
Define normal weight as weight appropriate for maintaining good health for an individual. Use the 'rule of thumb': for males, 106 lbs for the first 5 feet plus 6 lbs per inch over; for females, 100 lbs plus 5 lbs per inch over. Adjust by 10% for bone size.
More Information
Normal weight varies based on multiple factors, including height, age, and body structure. The 'rule of thumb' provides a quick estimation, but individual assessments may vary.
Tips
Avoid using the same calculation for both males and females or forgetting to adjust for bone size.
Sources
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