Ana thinks that she should weigh less. How would you recommend that she assess her weight?
A) Look in the mirror regularly.
B) Look through women’s magazines.
C) Assess her body mass index.
D) Ask her friends if they think she should lose weight.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is C) Assess her body mass index.
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a tool commonly used to assess whether a person’s weight is within a healthy range. It is a simple calculation based on a person’s height and weight. BMI helps categorize weight into several ranges, such as underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obese. The calculation gives a broad indication of whether someone is at a healthy weight for their height, which can guide decisions regarding diet, exercise, and overall health.
Unlike other methods such as looking in the mirror (A) or relying on external opinions from friends (D), BMI provides an objective, standardized measure of weight status. Women’s magazines (B), while offering some guidance on beauty standards, may not provide scientifically accurate or healthy advice. They often promote idealized body types that can be unrealistic or even unhealthy, leading to body dissatisfaction and potentially harmful behaviors.
By calculating her BMI, Ana can determine whether her weight falls within a healthy range or if adjustments might be necessary. It is essential, however, to recognize that BMI is not a perfect measure, as it does not account for factors like muscle mass, bone density, or fat distribution. Still, it is a useful starting point for assessing weight-related health risks. If her BMI suggests she is underweight or overweight, Ana could consult a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action, whether that involves changes to her diet, exercise routine, or other lifestyle factors.