Weight Management

Definition
Weight management means keeping your body weight at a healthy level.

Information
Regular exercise and a healthy diet are a must when it comes to controlling your weight. A weight management plan depends on whether you are overweight or underweight.
An easy way to determine your own desirable body weight is to use the following formula:
· Women: 100 pounds for the first 5 feet of height plus 5 pounds for each additional inch.
· Men: 106 pounds of body weight for the first 5 feet of height plus 6 pounds for each additional inch.
· For a small body frame, 10% should be subtracted. For a large frame, 10% should be added.
Body fat and body mass measurements are used to determine whether a person is under- or overweight. A registered dietitian or exercise physiologist can help you calculate your body fat. The recommended amount of body fat differs for men and women.
For women:
· Recommended amount of body fat: 20% - 21%.
· The average American woman has approximately 22% - 25% body fat.
· A woman with more than 30% body fat is considered obese.
For men:
· Recommended amount: 13% - 17%
· Adult men in the United States average 17 - 19% body fat
· 25% or higher is considered obese.
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a indirect measurement of your body composition. It takes into consideration both your weight and height. BMI helps determine your risk for certain diseases, including diabetes and hypertension.