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Diet tools

Do you jump on the scale at every opportunity? Does "I've lost/gained a quarter of a pound since this morning" sound familiar? If so, you know that those fluctuating numbers and the resulting jubilance or disappointment can play havoc with your motivation and self-confidence. Just as you can't judge a book by its cover, the numbers on the scale don't tell the whole story.

There are a number of other measurements that nutritionists and medical professionals use to judge our weight and health status.

Check these out!

BMI and Waist-to-hip explained

Body Mass Index Calculator (BMI)

One of these is Body Mass Index or BMI. BMI uses a mathematical formula that takes both height and weight into account. So while people of different heights have different healthy weight ranges, the healthy BMI range of 20-25 is the same for most adults (the BMI may not be applicable to body builders and athletes).

Waist-to-hip Calculator

Another measurement is the Waist To Hip Ratio. Research shows that people with "apple-shaped" bodies (with more weight around the waist) face more health risks than those with "pear-shaped" bodies who carry more weight around the hips. This tool will help you see if your body shape puts you at risk.