Obese or Over weight? How do we assess?
The percentile number means that your child exceeds that percentage of children her age for that measurement. For example, if she's in the 75th percentile for height, she's taller than 75 percent of other kids her age.
This calculator measures body mass index (BMI), which is a measure of body fat. It is only an approximate measure of the best weight for your health.
As children grow, their amount of body fat changes and so will their BMI. That's why a BMI calculation for a child or adolescent must take into account their age and gender (we do this using percentile charts). BMI percentiles are grouped into the following categories:
Overweight: BMI 85th to 95th percentile.
Obese: BMI ≥95th percentile.
Severe obesity: BMI ≥120 percent of the 95th percentile values, or a BMI ≥35 kg/m2 (whichever is lower)
How should I see where I stand?
Step 1
Mark your age on the horizontal column
Step two
Mark your BMI on the vertical side by calculating weight (kgs)/Height (m2).
The intersection of these two lines will give you your percentile reading.
| Age, y | BMI 85th-94th Percentile No Risk | BMI 85th-94th Percentile With Risk | BMI 95th-98th Percentile | BMI >99th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-5 | Maintain weight velocity | Decrease weight velocity or weight maintenance. | Weight maintenance. | Gradual weight loss of up to 1 lb/mo if BMI is very high (>21 or 22 kg/m2) |
| 6-11 | Maintain weight velocity | Decrease weight velocity or weight maintenance. | Weight maintenance or gradual (1 lb/mo) | Weight no to exceed an average of 2 bl/wk* |
| 12-18 | Maintain weight velocity. After linear growth is complete, maintain weight. | Decrease weight velocity or weight maintenance | Weight loss not to exceed an average of 2 lb/wk* | Weight loss not to exceed an average of 2 lb/wk* |
Abbreviation: BMI, Body mass index.
*if greater loss is noted. monitor for causes of excessive weight loss.
Underweight: Increase calories from healthy foods
Monitor Diet for any calories from eating extra
Increase Physical activity
Diet Modification
Parental counselling
Intensive Physical Activity
Behavioural therapy
Diet Modification
Intensive Physical Activity
Behavioural therapy
Parental counselling
Frequency of eating meals in restaurants (fast food, take-out, or service).
Intake of calorie containing beverages (including juice and soft drinks).
Frequency and portion size of energy-dense foods (such as cookies and other baked goods, chips, or ice cream).
Servings of vegetables and fruits, and which of these are regularly offered and accepted. One serving equals one whole fruit, or ½ cup of vegetables.
Number of meals each day, and frequency of skipping meals.
Typical snacking patterns (timing and foods consumed).
School lunch (purchased or brought from home).
Genetics, Environment, Unhealthy Diet, Sedentary Lifestyle
Eating breakfast daily
Limiting the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages
Consuming a diet in line with the quantities of fruits and vegetables
Limiting portion size
Make all foods nutritious and appealing
Have family meals more often
Make meal time enjoyable and fun
Limiting television and screen time to less than 2 hours per day;
Limiting dining out, particularly in fast food establishments; Allow treats
Involving the entire family in lifestyle changes-Become a role model
