As written in my earlier posts, my weight dropped from 46.7kg to about 44kg (at times, 43.9kg) early this year. I did not intentionally lose weight. I kept getting the flu and sore throat continuously late last year for several months. I also intensified my daily morning workout by adding strength training and lower abdomen exercises. All these contributed to a weight loss of more than 2kg. Most of the inches came off my waist and hips and I had to send all my skirts and pants to the tailor to have them tightened.
For someone standing at 158cm tall, a weight of 44kg is considered underweight (BMI of only 17.63). My 2 older girls tell me that I am grossly underweight because I am lighter than them 😬
Your BMI (Body Mass Index) is based on your height and weight. It’s one way to see if you’re at a healthy weight. Let’s have a look at the BMI chart:
Underweight: Your BMI is less than 18.5
Healthy weight: Your BMI is 18.5 to 24.9
Overweight: Your BMI is 25 to 29.9
Obese: Your BMI is 30 or higher
You can calculate your BMI by using a BMI Calculator.
This month my weight went up a wee bit to 44.9kg, which fluctuates up to 46kg during different times of the menstrual cycle. My most trusted part-time helper of 7 years recently came back from her 3-month maternity leave and I’m a tad more relaxed at home now. Also, I don’t have to cook anymore as the mil is back as well. Cooking involves quite a bit of hands and legs movements and I think it’s a form of exercise. My weight gain is partly contributed by having to do fewer house chores as well as muscle gain as I’ve recently added hand weights exercise to my morning exercise regimen.
Muscle is much denser than fat, so very muscular people, such as heavyweight boxers, weight trainers and athletes, may be a healthy weight even though their BMI is classed as obese.
Is being underweight good for you besides having a smaller frame?
Being underweight isn’t good for your health. Weighing too little can contribute to a weakened immune system, nutritional deficiencies, anemia, fragile bones, infertility and feeling tired.
Yes I hear ya! That’s why I’m not too concerned that I’ve gained back a few pounds. With the few pounds added back, my BMI still falls under the Underweight category.
When I first got a new job as PA to a Datuk many years ago, my work life was so stressful that my weight dropped to 42kg. I suffered from infertility, hormonal imbalance and was later diagnosed with PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome). I personally find that I lack the stamina to run / exercise when my weight goes down too much.
Recently a famous pretty social media influencer who’s a size XXS commented that if a woman is size M, she is already considered obese and if you’re a size M and above, you should move your arse more, exercise and go on diet. Her post drew a lot of flak on social media.
I personally feel that we should eat right, sleep well, EXERCISE, move more and stick to a weight that we feel healthy and comfortable in. Use the BMI as a guide to help you achieve your ideal weight.
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