Calculating whether someone is over-weight or under-weight is not an exact science, although there are scientific methods that can be applied to the question. The most common is the Body Mass Index and using this based on the statistics given, a girl who is 15 in October, 5ft 6ins and 46 kg is a healthy weight. A boy with the same statistics is slightly underweight.
- What is the Body Mass Index?
It's a calculation that uses height and weight to estimate how much body fat you have. Too much body fat is a problem because it can lead to illnesses. BMI is a far from perfect method for judging weight because it fails to take into account genetic factors and body composition such as muscle. It's mostly used to check how someone is growing. You can find BMI calculators online.
- What does it tell you when you enter your information?
It calculates a BMI score. This score is then plotted on a graph. Depending on where the score is placed on the graph, you are given a diagnosis of either underweight, healthy weight, overweight or obese.
- Do the figures given above indicate that I have a problem?
No, firstly because if you are a girl, you are in the healthy section of the graph. But if you are a boy, the line is only slightly different. This date puts you just n the cusp of healthy and underweight.
- What should I do if I continue to worry about my weight?
See a health professional who can talk in more detail about BMI and weight. They can also advise diet and exercise regimes.
