average weight of american woman

Average Weight of American Woman – How to Get Your Ideal Body Weight?

When it comes to the discussion about the average weight of women in the United States, you might find that it varies by time. It happens due to the changing trends such as lifestyle and food. So, what is the average weight of American woman? Here is everything you need to know.

American Women’s Average Weight

A report by the National Center for Health Statistics reveals that the average weight of adult women in the US at the age of 20 years and older is 168.5 pounds. It is based on the statistics shown by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Not only the average weight but the statistic by NHANES also shows the average body mass index (BMI) of women in the United States. It reveals that the average BMI of women in the country is 29.2. However, the scale of the BMI is not the healthy one and it is considered overweight.

How to Measure Your Ideal Body Weight

The statistic that shows the average weight of American women is not necessarily a benchmark to determine your body weight. In fact, based on the report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Trusted Source, almost 40% of adults in the US are obese. So, this is important to know your own body weight. Keep in mind that it is okay if your body weight is different from the average body size of the women in the US. Various tools can be used to measure the ideal weight of your body accurately.

1. BMI

You need to divide the weight of your body in pounds by your height in inches squared to find out your BMI. Then, make sure to multiply the result of the calculation by 703. A healthy BMI measurement will be anything from 18.5 to 24.9.

2. Densitometry

To measure your body weight by using densitometry, you will need to use underwater weighing.

3. BIA

BIA (Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis) is a weight measurement technique that utilizes a certain device. This is aimed to measure the electrical wave that currently flows in your body.

4. Skinfold Thickness Test

You can use the help of a personal trainer to do this kind of test. This skinfold thickness test uses calipers to figure out your ideal body weight.

5. Waist-to-Hip Ratio

Women should have 0.85 of waist-to-hip at a maximum ratio to be considered healthy. You need to take your measurement at the widest part of your lower body and at your natural waist to calculate the ratio.

The average weight of American woman speaks volumes about the current trends occurring in the country. However, it doesn’t mean that you have to use it as a gauge for your own ideal weight. Individual factors such as height and age will play an important role in determining the ideal size of your body. That should be based on your individual needs even the weight is different from the average weight of women in the US. Make sure to consult your nutritionist to help you determine your ideal weight and how to achieve it.

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