subject: Why Body Fat Measurement Is Important For A Healthy You? [print this page] Body fat measurement is one of the most definitive and simple way to determine the exact body fat in an individual. It is a known fact that excess fat in the body result in obesity related diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, gallbladder disease and many more.
What is Body Fat?
So what exactly does measuring body fat mean? It means calculating ones body mass index (BMI). This refers to measuring the body fat of a person based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women. The BMI falls under four categories for a regular adult. They are as under:
Underweight = less than 18.5
Normal weight = 18.524.9
Overweight = 2529.9
Obesity = BMI of 30 or greater
However, the BMI of athletes and others who have a muscular build is calculated differently. Again, the fat measurement is different in older people and those who have lost their muscle.
About Body Fat Scale
So, how would you measure your excess body fat? Well, the market is profuse with a wide range of body fat measurement scales that would offer you readings in digital format. There are scales that measure the fat content only through the upper body; there are varieties that offer you full body analysis and those for a full body and segmental analysis. These scales use bio impedance and come from portable to large sizes. Among the various places, which use this fat measuring tool are individual houses of health conscious people, physicians clinics, health instructors, slimming centers, weight loss franchises, work-out centers, commercial gyms, and university kinesiology departments.
Waist Circumference Measurement
Along with the body fat measurement, it is also important to measure your waist circumference to thwarting off health risks related to overweight and obesity. Studies have revealed than excess fat around your waist put you at a higher risk for heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Hence, a waist size should NOT be greater than
35 inches for women
40 inches for men
So, how is it to be done? To correctly measure your waist, stand and place a tape measure around your middle, just above your hipbones. To get accurate measurement, you should measure your waist just after you breathe out. Nowadays, medical scales are also available for measuring the same.
Controlling Excess Body Fat
Now, that you know about the various disadvantages of excess body fat, it is important that you approach an organic weight loss program for proper weight management. This may range from setting the right goals and focusing on lifestyle changes. And yes, keep a tab of your health with right body fat measurement tools.
The body fat scale using bio impedance is the best to keep you alert about your health quotient. Go for one today.
