Healthy Weight for My Age

"What is a healthy weight for my age?" is a common question as people grow older. However, gender, age, BMI, and overall health all factor in when determining the healthy weight range for most adults.

Weight-Related Health Conditions

Being overweight or obese may potentially lead to a number of serious health disorders in both men and women. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, weighing too much puts you at risk for type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer, sleep apnea, coronary heart disease, stroke, fatty liver disease, osteoarthritis, metabolic syndrome, and pregnancy complications.

While weight loss has health benefits, losing too much weight leads to other problems. Osteoporosis, infertility, and immune dysfunction rates are higher in underweight individuals than in those who maintain a healthy weight. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies are also associated with below normal weight levels.

Women have an additional reason to control their weight, as postmenopausal weight gain increases the risk of breast cancer. According to the Mayo Clinic, breast cancer risk increases by as much as 20 percent in women who gain more than 20 pounds following menopause. Losing weight after menopause can substantially reduce this risk.

What is a Healthy Weight for My Age?

As we get older, a healthy weight becomes more difficult to achieve and maintain. During middle age, metabolism slows, activity naturally decreases, and hormone levels begin to decline. All of these factors may lead to weight gain, but you should never use them as an excuse for an unhealthy weight.

Regardless of your age, it is important to determine your healthy weight range to assess your risk of developing health complications in the future. If your weight falls outside the normal range, you must take action to improve your health and reduce your risk of weight-related disease.

Body Mass Index

BMI, or body mass index, is a reliable indicator of healthy weight and body fatness in most adults. You can calculate your BMI using your weight and height.

• BMI = (Weight in Pounds divided by ( Height in inches ) x ( Height in inches ) ) x 703

For example, a person weighing 150 pounds who is 67 inches tall has a BMI of 150/4489 (67 x 67) multiplied by 703, or 23.49.

• A BMI of less than 18.5 is classified as underweight. If your BMI score is lower than this figure, you may benefit from gaining weight.
• A BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 is classified as "normal" or healthy. This is your target BMI range, and those with BMIs in this range have the lowest risk of developing weight-related health complications.
• A BMI of 25.0 to 29.9 is classified as overweight. If your BMI score falls within this range, you should take steps to lose weight by improving your diet and increasing your activity level. If you have any other risk factors for weight-related health conditions, speak with your doctor about effective weight loss strategies.
• A BMI of 30.0 or higher is classified as obese. Obesity increases your risk of diabetes, stroke, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other diseases. Speak with your doctor for medical advice.

Waist Circumference

Another reliable indicator of healthy weight is waist circumference. Men with a waist circumference of greater than 40 inches, and non-pregnant women with a waist circumference of greater than 35 inches, are at greater risk of weight-related conditions. Excessive abdominal fat is more indicative of potential health concerns than fat in other areas.

• To measure your waist circumference, place a fabric tape measure around your abdomen, directly above your hipbone. Pull the tape measure tight, but make certain your skin is not compressed and no bulges are visible below or above the tape. Use this number to determine your risk.

When to Visit Your Doctor

Speak with your doctor if you are concerned about your weight. Many doctors are hesitant to initiate weight-related conversation unless the patient is very overweight or obese. However, weight management is much easier than weight loss, and keeping your weight under control throughout life has enormous health benefits.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

• Am I at a healthy weight for my age?
• Does my weight put me at risk for health complications?
• What is my BMI?
• Should I undergo testing for a thyroid disorder?
• Based on my medical history, how can I safely lose or gain weight?
• Are my triglyceride and cholesterol levels normal?
• Should I be tested for type 2 diabetes?

If your doctor does not answer your questions adequately, do not hesitate to ask for a referral to a nutritionist or dietitian. Obesity is associated with a plethora of very serious health conditions, and being underweight increases your risk of infertility and osteoporosis. Maintaining a healthy weight can prevent these conditions from developing and prolong your life..

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