We have traditionally considered people obese if they are more than 20% over their ideal weight. But obesity really means having too much body fat. It is different from being overweight, or simply weighing too much. The extra weight may come from muscle, bone, fat, or body water. But both terms mean that a person's weight exceeds that considered healthy for his or her height.
The NIH has defined obesity more precisely as a BMI (body mass index) of 30 and above. The BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. A score of 30 is about 30 pounds overweight.
I believe that the BMI is only a helpful guide to ascertaining total body fat. While the index is valid for both men and women, it has its limits. For instance:
If you want an accurate reading of your body fat percentage and lean muscle mass, purchase the Tanita body composition monitor discussed in the next section. Or have your health professional measure your body fat.
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