All dieters ask this question and really, it is the first step to setting realistic goals that will help you reach your new goal weight. Weight loss is important for your physical appearance AND the overall health of your body because there are many illnesses and diseases that are known to be caused by obesity.
On the other end of the scale, losing too much weight can also have detrimental effects on your body. If you're asking yourself "how much weight can I lose?" it is important to know what your ideal weight range is in order to keep yourself within that range.
Today the BMI, or Body Mass Index, is a great tool that is used to help you measure the amount of body fat you have based on your weight and height and the BMI will help you decide how much weight you can lose.
The formula for calculating your own BMI is as follows:
BMI = weight in pounds ÷ (height in inches)² x 703
You can use this formula, or there are several websites that will compute your BMI for you. Once you known your BMI number, you can then see where on the scale your weight falls. Here are 4 important things to note:
if your BMI falls under 18.5, you are considered to be "underweight"
if your BMI is between 18.5 to 24.9 this is a "normal weight"
if you your BMI is between 25 and 29.9 you are considered to be "overweight"
if your BMI is over 30 than you are considered to be "obese"
Don't let this number scare you, just use it to let you know how much weight you can lose. Your goal should be to get your BMI level in the normal weight range. If you are in the underweight category then you should not lose any more weight and should actually try to increase your weight to reach the normal range. If your BMI is considered overweight, you need to begin a weight loss program that will help you lose your needed pounds. If your BMI falls under the obesity category, you may be in danger of some health risks.
You should begin your plan by making an appointment with your doctor to discuss all of your options and let them help you formulate a diet & exercise plan that is right for you.
If you have decided based on your BMI that you want to shed some pounds, whether it be 5 or 85 your goal should be to lose a little per week. This may not sound like much to you but studies have shown that people who ask "How much weight can I lose" drop their weight steadily but gradually tend to KEEP IT OFF longer than those who lose a lot of weight all at one time. Studies suggest that by reducing your daily diet by between 500 to 1000 calories per day, will help you lose 1 to 2 pounds per week.
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