weight Loss
It has been estimated that more than 60% of adult Americans
are overweight, that is a Body mass Index of greater than
25. A recent study estimated that 11% of teens are overweight,
and a full 14% of children are overweight. Many experts
believe that obesity in the United States is becoming
epidemic, and that, if current trends continue, by the
year 2040, virtually every American will be overweight.
What is Body Mass Index? BMI is a measurement based on
height and weight as it relates to body fat, and can be
used to determine how much risk a person has of developing
certain health problems because of his or her weight.
The guidelines for BMI:
| 18.5 - or less |
Underweight |
| 18.5 - 24.9 |
Healthy weight |
| 25.0 - 29.9 |
Overweight |
| 30.0 - 39.9 |
Obese |
| 40.0 or more |
Severely Obese |
To calculate BMI, please
click
here.
Persons with a BMI of greater than 25 increase their
risk of serious health problems, including hypertension,
Type II Diabetes, cardio-vascular disease, congestive
heart disease. 300,000 Americans die each year from obesity-related
illnesses. Obesity is second only to tobacco smoking as
the leading preventable disease in the US.
While there is considerable debate concerning the causes
of obesity, most experts agree that the combination of
diet and exercise as a life-long habit is required to
maintain a healthy weight. There are a number of medications
available to assist individuals beginning their weight
loss program. Please consult with your physician to determine
if these medications are right for you.
