Weight Loss Calculator: Find Out More

Weight Loss Goals

The MSN Health & Fitness Weight Loss Calculator is based on a recommended weight loss goal of 5 percent to 10 percent of current body weight and a weight loss rate of one pound per week.

Sources

The weight loss goals in the Weight Loss Calculator are based on the recommendations by the American Dietetic Association, published in Adult Weight Management Evidence-Based Nutrition Practice Guideline (2006):

“Individualized goals of weight loss therapy should be to reduce body weight at an optimal rate of 1-2 lbs per week for the first 6 months and to achieve an initial weight loss goal of up to 10% from baseline. These goals are realistic, achievable, and sustainable.”

In addition, similar guidelines for modest weight loss to reduce health risks are recommended by the American Cancer Society, the American Diabetes Association, and the American Heart Association in Preventing cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes (2004):

“Even modest weight loss (5% to 10% of body weight) and modest physical activity (30 minutes daily) can have a positive impact on diabetes risk and management.”

The Weight Loss Calculator also follows a recommendation published in a 1995 World Health Organization technical report Physical Status: The Use and Interpretation of Anthropometry. These WHO guidelines recommend against setting larger weight loss goals.

On the Web: http://whqlibdoc.who.int/trs/WHO_TRS_854_(chp7).pdf (See Chapter 7.2.2 Assessing response to an intervention, pp. 330 and 331 of the report, p. 19 of the .pdf file)

Disclaimer

The guidance provided by the Weight Loss Calculator is intended for use by adults aged 18 and older. Additionally, the guidance provided by the Weight Loss Calculator is not intended to replace the guidance of a health care professional.

Please consult a health care professional before starting a diet or exercise program. Read more.

Privacy Policy

The data you enter into the Weight Loss Calculator may be saved via cookie unless you uncheck the “Remember my information” box. Read the Microsoft Online Privacy Notice for more information.