If you have packed on a few extra pounds recently you may be feeling self conscious and you might even think you are obese. However, there is an actual difference between obesity and overweight medical labels. Both of these medical terms are used as medical labels to describe a certain weight range. Both of these labels fall outside of the healthy weight range, but they are different. Distinguishing the difference between obesity and overweight labels as they apply to a person's weight is important. The reason it is important is because once a weight range is determined it helps determine what that person's risk for certain diseases or health problems is. Naturally, the heavier you are the greater your risk of diseases and health problems. That is why it is better to be considered overweight than it is to be considered obese.
If you want to figure out the technical difference between obesity and overweight labels you need to know what BMI is. BMI stands for body mass index. Your body mass index is one of the methods used by doctors to determine the amount of body fat that you have. This is calculated using your weight as it applies to your height. This is not a direct way of measuring the amount of body fat you have, but it fairly accurate for most people.
To use BMI to figure out the difference between obesity and overweight labels you need to know a bit more about BMI numbers. BMI numbers are different for adults, teens, and children. BMI numbers for adults who are overweight would fall between 25 and 29.9. To be considered obese your BMI must be greater than 30. You can find your BMI using a BMI calculator. Most weight loss programs offer a free BMI calculator for your convenience, and to gauge the amount of weight you need to lose.
Although there is a difference between obesity and overweight labels as they apply to the medical labels, the health risks are similar. The only true difference between the two when it comes to health related complications is the level of risk. Obviously, if you are obese you are considered to be at a greater risk for developing diseases and health problems because of your weight. Some of the risks for overweight and obese people would include type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, cancer, metabolic syndrome, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, gallbladder disease, fatty liver disease, hypertension, and even complications with pregnancy.
Regardless of whether you are overweight or obese it is essential that you lose weight. Losing weight is the only way to reduce, or in some cases altogether eliminate your risk of diseases or health related complications. A healthy BMI number falls between 18.5 and 24.9. When you want to get your BMI into that healthier weight range you need to diet. Your diet should be balanced and heart healthy. In addition to diet, you need to get moving, exercise is an essential part of weight loss and overall good health.
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