How Much Should the Average Person Weigh?
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Body Mass Index
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There really is no standard weight for an "average person." An ideal weight depends on many variables that differ in each individual, such as age, height and amount of exercise. The average weight for teenage girls is going to differ drastically from that of middle-aged men. However, there is a way to generate a number that takes your height and weight into consideration to determine whether you are underweight, average, overweight or obese. This number is known as the body mass index, or BMI. There are plenty of BMI calculators online that allow you to put in your information to see where you are on this scale.
Disputes Over What Is "Average"
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While it is important to monitor your weight, keep in mind that BMI calculators are only able to take two factors into account. Very healthy athletes, for example, could possibly get a high number on the BMI because of a great deal of muscle mass, which does not pose the health risks that an overweight person may face. Also, what we perceive as average because of what we see on television or in advertisements is often far from reality for most adults. Being health-conscious and aware of your weight is good, but becoming obsessed with your weight can lead to a wide variety of serious problems.
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Bottom Line
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Calculating your BMI is a great step to see where you currently stand, and making healthy lifestyle choices is sure to make you look and feel better than you otherwise would. Being overweight or obese can lead to negative health conditions as well as poor self-image. However, if you are concerned about your weight and how it relates to the "norm," talking to a doctor or a nutritionist is a good next step. She can help you figure out far more about yourself and your personal needs and point you in a healthy, positive direction.
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