Body Weight - What's Normal? / Question
Published: September 2, 2000
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Am I Fat? I am 13 years old and 5'4" and weigh 115-120 somewhere between those numbers. Am I fat?
Signed: Desperate About Being Fat
Dear Desperate About Being Fat,
TeenHealthFX does not think that you are fat! We checked your BMI (body mass index), which looks at your height and weight. You scored 20, which is in the normal range for your age group.
TeenHealthFX is more concerned with the way that you signed the question "Desperate About Being Fat". We are concerned that you may feel or think badly about yourself or your body and the word desperate makes us think that you have other pressing issues. Teens can often be overly concerned with their looks and weight, but sometimes it can be because they feel pressure from their peers and family or something else is bothering them.
Why you want to lose weight is an important question to keep in mind. Is it because you do not feel comfortable with yourself, or are kids at school are doing it, or is there some underlying issue that makes you feel fat? TeenHealthFX wants to reassure you that you are not fat and there are plenty of people who can help you!
It may be helpful for you to speak to a counselor or your doctor about your concerns. If you need to talk to someone, it may be a good idea to see a therapist, who can help you sort through any discomfort you may be feeling. TeenHealthFX is worried about you and your well being and a doctor will be able to discuss this with you.
If you live in Northern New Jersey, please call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center For Health at (973) 889.6350.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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