Determining if a 16-year-old is overweight involves considering their body mass index (BMI). BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight.
To calculate a teenager's BMI, you can use online calculators or refer to BMI charts specifically designed for adolescents. These charts account for the typical growth patterns and development of teenagers.
Here's a breakdown of BMI categories for teenagers:
- Underweight: BMI below the 5th percentile
- Healthy weight: BMI between the 5th and 85th percentile
- Overweight: BMI between the 85th and 95th percentile
- Obese: BMI above the 95th percentile
It's important to note that BMI is just one factor in assessing overall health. A doctor or healthcare professional should be consulted for a comprehensive assessment. They can consider other factors like muscle mass, body composition, and family history to provide personalized guidance.
