Factors Influencing Average Weight
In addition to your age, height, and where you live, a combination of other factors influences your weight. These factors include
- Diet: What and how much you eat can affect whether you gain or lose weight over time.
- Activity level: Not burning enough calories in a day and not getting enough exercise can contribute to weight gain. How active you are may also affect your muscle mass, which influences weight.
- Genetics: Your genes play a central role in your weight. Based on studies of identical twins (who have the same genes), researchers think that certain genes make it easier to gain or lose weight.
- Sleep: Studies suggest that getting less than seven to nine hours of nightly sleep stimulates your appetite and can contribute to weight gain.
- Culture: Your cultural background may shape what you eat, how active you are, and other factors that influence your weight.
- Race and ethnicity: In the U.S., average weight differs among ethnic and racial groups.2
- Medical conditions: Many health conditions can cause weight gain or loss.
- Medications: Some drugs for depression, epilepsy, diabetes, allergies, and other conditions can impact your metabolism and weight.
- Social factors: Other factors that affect weight include whether you live in a walkable neighborhood or have access to fresh, healthy food.
What Is a Healthy Weight for Men?
The average weight isn’t necessarily a healthy weight for most men. A healthy weight for you is one that’s right for your body and doesn’t increase health risks. It depends on many factors, like your age, height, health history, genetics, activity levels, muscle mass, and more.85
A common way that healthcare providers determine a target weight is by using a body mass index (BMI) chart. Based on your height and weight, BMI scores fit into categories of health risk. For example, a 5-foot-9-inch adult’s BMI class would be
- Underweight (BMI less than 18.5) at 124 pounds or less
- Healthy weight (BMI 18.5-25) at 125-168 pounds
- Overweight (BMI 25-30) at 169-202 pounds
- Obesity (BMI 30 and above) at over 203 pounds
BMI isn’t a perfect measure. It doesn’t distinguish between fat, muscle, and bone mass or account for ethnicity and race.10 The best way to determine if you’re at a healthy weight is to talk to a healthcare provider. They can help you determine your weight and health goals.
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