Underweight Canadians

Article: Underweight Canadians (PDF)

Objectives

• To become aware of what the body mass index (BMI) is
• To discuss possible reasons for being underweight

Methods

1. Using the formula for BMI given in the article, have each student calculate their own BMI. Then, using the Canadian guidelines, have them calculate which weight category they belong to. Do the categories change if they now use the International guidelines?
2. Ask the class to discuss what exactly the BMI measures and to explain the circumstances under which it can be misleading.
3. According to the 1998–99 National Population Health Survey, nearly 10% of Canadians are underweight. Have the students list potential reasons why someone in their age group would be underweight.
4. Previous studies have indicated that young women tend to want to lose weight, while young men are more inclined to want to gain. Survey the class to see how many students have a positive body image. Among those who are not happy with their weight, how many would like to lose and how many to gain?
5. Have the students investigate the health implications of being underweight.

Please e-mail comments or examples of how you used this exercise in your class.