Weight problem
Many people may think that they are overweight when, in fact, their weight may be normal for their height, age, and sex. They are concerned about their shape or figure and attribute an unsatisfactory shape to excessive weight. But very few persons are able to achieve this “ideal” shape, which may even be biologically or anatomically impossible to attain or maintain for some persons.
Apart from such shape problems, there are genuine weight problems. A person may be overweight or underweight compared to the average or desirable weight. This can cause a physical disorder or anxiety.
Question: How is average weight calculated?
Weight tables are compiled by taking the weights of a large number of people and working out an average. The average weight varies because of many factors. For example, ethnic groups may vary in physical proportions; and some families are heavier than others, and their children inherit this characteristic.
Question: How does the body normally regulate weight?
Most people stay about the same weight throughout adult life or gain weight only slowly. The appetite center, in the hypothalamus of the brain, regulates the amount that is eaten. A slight overbalance results in a gradual weight gain. Even an extra slice of bread a day may cause a gain of one-half pound a month, about six pounds in a year.
Question: When should a person consider there is a weight problem?
Average expected weights should not be considered ideal weights. The correct weight varies from 10 percent below to 10 percent above the average weight. Weight well above or below this is probably abnormal.
