There are certain exclusions. Obesity was from 30 and severe obesity starts at 40. Other associated illnesses can bring the obesity BMI level down to 27 or lower. The National Academy of Sciences' diet and health report suggests that a BMI of 22 to 27 is normal for persons 45 to 54 years of age a BMI of 23 to 28 is normal for persons 55 to 65 years of age a BMI of 24 to 29 is normal for persons over 65 years old. Men are usually satisfied with a BMI of 23 to 25.
Many people choose to lose weight for cosmetic reasons.
Some health researchers find that people who keep the same weight, throughout their lives, live the longest. The reasons why have not yet been found. Other factors may be more important in deciding to lose weight, such as diabetes, hypertension, history of heart attacks in the family, or elevated cholesterol. In this category, weight gain can be avoided through moderate eating habits and exercise. People in this group have the hardest decision to make about reducing, given the potential health risks of weight loss.