Because of these dangers, it is important to determine the right body fat. Many health professionals use the body mass index (BMI) to determine if individuals are carrying too much fat. It is based on one's height and waist, and estimates whether one's weight is healthy or not and if one is overweight and obese. These health experts say that a healthy BMI for individuals is between 19 and 26. A BMI of 27 to 30 is regarded as overweight, while 30 above is classified as obese. If one's BMI is below 19, it may lead to health problems like osteoporosis, malnutrition, liver disease, and inadequate absorption of nutrients from the intestines. BMI applies to individuals, regardless of their sex, age, frame size or muscle mass.
Many health studies show that one's BMI may not be an accurate indication of one's fat composition. There are some exceptions that may be applied in determining one's BMI. Because muscle weighs more than fat, the BMI overestimates the body fat in many individuals with low body fat and a lot of muscle. In addition, BMI underestimates the body fat in elderly people.
Body fat can be determined by underwater weighing, by the use calipers and other special equipment that can used to calculate how much body fat a person possess. When special apparatus and equipments are not available many health experts believe that measuring one's waist can an easy way of determining one's health. For men, a waist measurement of 40 indicates a high risk for health ailments. For women, a considerable figure is 35 inches or more.
Rather than searching for a cure for obesity or a way to figure out one's body content, the cause of obesity should be given priority. When more calories are taken than burned off, weight gain may occur. Eating too much calories than what the human body needs is one of the main cause of the rise of obesity in many societies. In addition, the busy lives of people in the 21st century made it harder for individuals to cook and prepare healthy meals. Nowadays, prepared foods and fast food deliveries have become the first option when it comes to food choices. These foods are high in fat and calories. Work schedules, long commutes, and work commitments have taken the time for physical activities. These factors have contributed to the rising number of individuals who are overweight and obese.
People should remember that there are no shortcuts to good health. People who are overweight or obese should consider in a change in lifestyles and food regimen. Doctors and other health professionals should be consulted to develop a plan that might work for certain individuals. For sure, these health experts will advise a nutritious diet and plenty of physical activities to be involved in one's diet. Improvements in these areas may lead to improved overall health and enhanced well-being.
