The average weight for women varies significantly by country, but in places like Australia, it's around 72 kg (about 159 lbs), while US data suggests averages around 75-80 kg for younger adults, increasing with age, with specific averages dependent on height and age group. There isn't a single global average, but figures often cluster in the 70-80 kg range for many developed nations, with "healthy" ranges depending on Body Mass Index (BMI).
70kg isn't inherently heavy for a woman; it depends heavily on height, body composition, and build, but it often falls into a healthy range for taller women, while for shorter women, it could lean towards overweight. For example, a 175cm (5'9") woman at 70kg has a healthy BMI, but a 163cm (5'4") woman at the same weight might be considered borderline overweight, according to this article from The Daily Telegraph.
Short answer: generally underweight. At 160 cm and 45 kg the body mass index (BMI) is 17.6 kg/m2, below the World Health Organization's underweight threshold (BMI < 18.5). That number alone doesn't prove illness, but it does indicate increased risk for health problems and suggests at least an evaluation is warranted.
A BMI of less than 18.5 kg/m² is considered underweight. A BMI between 25 kg/m² and 29.9 kg/m² is considered overweight. A BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher is considered obese. To check your BMI, type your height and weight into the BMI calculator for adults from the National Institute of Health.
Your most consistent and "true" weight is generally in the morning, after using the bathroom and before eating or drinking anything. This provides the most accurate baseline because your body has processed the previous day's food and fluids overnight, resulting in less fluctuation from digestion, water intake, and daily activities. Weighing at the same time, in the same minimal clothing, and under consistent conditions (like in the morning) helps track trends better than weighing at night or randomly.
Whether 56 kg (about 123 lbs) is "heavy" for a girl depends entirely on her height, body composition (muscle vs. fat), frame size, and age, as this weight can fall into a healthy range for taller individuals but might be considered heavier for shorter individuals. For example, a 160 cm (5'2") person with a BMI around 22 (normal range) could weigh 56 kg, while a shorter person might be in the overweight category, emphasizing that BMI is just a guide, and factors like muscle mass and how you feel are important too.
Sleep deprivation has long been linked to an increased risk of becoming overweight or obese. Researchers found that getting less than seven hours of sleep resulted in weight changes and may lead to weight gain, either by increasing food intake or decreasing energy burned.
Why does weight gain happen faster with age? Dr. Mansuri: The metabolism naturally slows down with age, meaning the body burns fewer calories at rest and during physical activity. There is also a gradual loss of muscle mass, known as sarcopenia, which further reduces metabolic rate.
In adults, overweight, or pre-obesity, is defined as a BMI of 25-29.9 kg/m², while a BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² defines obesity.
The answer is yes — but not as drastically as you may think. Metabolism drives the body's basic functions, including converting food into energy to be used immediately or stored for later use. Research shows that metabolism starts to slow down after age 60,2 which may lead to body composition changes or weight gain.
Overview. A lifestyle with good nutrition, regular physical activity, stress management, and enough sleep supports a healthy weight. People who lose weight at a gradual, steady pace—about 1 to 2 pounds a week—are more likely to keep the weight off than people who lose weight quicker.
If you're 165 cm tall, a healthy weight is between 54 kg and 68 kg. If you weigh over 81 kg, your BMI is above 30, placing you in the obesity range.
The 3-3-3 rule for weight loss is a simple, habit-based method focusing on three key areas: 3 balanced meals a day, 3 bottles (or ~1.5L) of water by 3 PM, and 3 hours of physical activity per week, aiming for consistency over complex diets. It simplifies fat loss by establishing rhythm through consistent eating, adequate hydration to support metabolism, and regular movement, promoting sustainable health without intense calorie counting or restrictive rules, says Five Diamond Fitness and Wellness, Joon Medical Wellness & Aesthetics, and EatingWell.
Fastest ways to lose weight usually combine:
You Might Be Eating Too Little
This phenomenon is called “starvation mode,” and while your body isn't actually starving, it will naturally hold onto whatever calories it receives in an effort to help you maintain your energy balance.
For even more health benefits, strive for 300 minutes a week or more of moderate aerobic activity or 150 minutes of vigorous activity. Exercising this much may help with weight loss or keeping off lost weight. But even small amounts of physical activity can be helpful.
Does Drinking Water Aid Weight Loss? There is evidence to support the claim that drinking water can aid weight loss. A study by the National Institute of Health on overweight women found that increasing water intake led to a reduction in body weight, body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage.
Remember meals, drinks and daily changes in schedule can affect weight readings. A couple of pounds here or there are not signs your body is changing. This is why weighing yourself after a bowel movement but before a meal helps maintain accuracy.
If you're weighing yourself weekly, research shows that we're generally at our heaviest on a Sunday night and at our lightest on a Friday morning, so weighing in before breakfast on a Wednesday can give us the most accurate reading of our current weight [6].