With so many diets and fads on the market today, it is no wonder people are confused about weight loss and health. The problem is that sometimes, following these weight loss trends actually harms the body more than it helps. One aspect of dieting that you see most often is the reduction or elimination of fat but keep in mind, the body needs some fat to function.
Many studies have linked certain conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure directly to high levels of body fat. The key is to ensure your body has enough fat to function properly but not so much that excessive weight, followed by health risks is an issue. The best way to determine your level of body fat is using the Body Mass Index, or BMI. By knowing and monitoring your BMI, optimal health can be maintained.
To determine your level of body fat, you have a number of options. For instance, you could actually use a body fat analyzer. Remember that variations as to the acceptable level of body fat exist. However, a typical man would maintain a level from 18% to 25% while a woman would measure from 21% to 36%. To come up with your own BMI, use the following formula:
-BMI = Weight in pounds x 704.5 / height in inches (twice)
For example, a person weighing 195 pounds who is 5’6” would have a BMI of 31.5. This would be calculated as 195 x 704.5=1,373,775 / 66=2,081.5 / 66=31.5.
BMI considers both weight and height although it will not give you the percentage of your body fat. In other words, a person with a BMI of 31.5 does not necessary have 31.5% body fat. However, what this does provide is you a chance to compare the number against a standard BMI chart, giving you a good indication of where your levels fall.
So, if the BMI were below 18.5, you would be considered underweight. However, if the BMI were between 25 and 30, you would fall into the overweight category. On the other hand, anything over 31 is thought of as obese. While the BMI can be a helpful tool, the only problem is that since it does not account for age, sex, or level of activity, it is not completely accurate, although it will give you an indicator.