A person is considered overweight when their Body Mass Index (BMI) is between 25.0 and 29.9. This is a common metric used to assess weight status in adults. However, it's important to remember that BMI doesn't account for factors like muscle mass, which can affect the accuracy of the measurement.
Understanding BMI and Overweight
The BMI is calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters (kg/m²). Different BMI ranges correspond to different weight categories:
- Underweight: Below 18.5
- Normal weight: 18.5–24.9
- Overweight: 25.0–29.9
- Obesity: 30.0 and Above
This information is sourced from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (CDC) also uses this BMI categorization for adults.
While BMI provides a general guideline, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a personalized assessment of your weight and health. They can consider individual factors beyond BMI to provide accurate advice. For example, a person with a BMI in the overweight range might be perfectly healthy if they have a high muscle mass. Conversely, someone with a BMI in the "normal" range could still have health issues related to fat distribution.
The question of "what dress size is considered overweight" is misleading. Clothing sizes vary significantly between brands and countries. Dress size is not a reliable indicator of health or weight status.
The terms "overweight" and "obesity" are frequently used in medical contexts, like the study on fructose intake and LDL particle size in overweight children (PubMed). However, in other contexts, like transportation, "overweight" refers to exceeding weight limits for vehicles or baggage (Delta Air Lines, Texas DMV).
