Strive to be a Light Weight
Although it is said that the media’s and fashion industry’s obsession with the size zero look is both unhealthy and has lead to anorexia, especially in young women, the truth is that less is best when it comes to the weight we carry, especially as we get older. Many of the aches and pains that we feel in our lower back, hips, knees and feet begin to disappear with the loss of the extra weight we carry around.
The average American gains 40 pounds between the ages of 20 and 40. Does that sound like a lot? Surveys show that during the holidays alone, the average American adult gains between 7 and 12 pounds. Much of that weight never comes off again. Try putting a 40 pound weight in a backpack and carrying it around all day long. It won’t take long before you become exhausted and your whole body begins to ache, especially your back, hips and feet.
Your weight should be proportionate for your height and your frame.One of the best measures for the correct weight for your height is the body mass index or BMI. The body mass index is a measure of body fat based on height and weight and applies to both adult men and women.
BMI is a reliable indicator of total body fat, which is related to the risk of disease and death. The score is valid for both men and women, but it does have some limits. The limits are:
- It may overestimate body fat in athletes and others who have a muscular build.
- It may underestimate body fat in older persons and others who have lost muscle mass.
Use the BMI table below to estimate your total body fat. The BMI score means the following:
Underweight Below 18.5
Normal 18.5 – 24.9
Overweight 25.0 – 29.9
Obesity 30.0 and Above