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Calculate Percent Weight Change

Weight Change Formula:

\[ \text{Percentage} = \left( \frac{\text{New Weight} - \text{Old Weight}}{\text{Old Weight}} \right) \times 100 \]

kg or lb
kg or lb

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1. What is Percent Weight Change?

Percent weight change is a calculation that shows how much weight has changed relative to the original weight. It's commonly used in medical, fitness, and nutritional contexts to track progress or identify concerning changes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the weight change formula:

\[ \text{Percentage} = \left( \frac{\text{New Weight} - \text{Old Weight}}{\text{Old Weight}} \right) \times 100 \]

Where:

Explanation: The formula calculates the relative difference between two weight measurements as a percentage of the original weight.

3. Importance of Weight Change Calculation

Details: Significant weight changes (typically >5% in 1 month or >10% in 6 months) may indicate health issues, nutritional problems, or the effectiveness of treatment plans.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both weights in the same units (kg or lb). Old weight must be greater than zero. Positive results indicate weight gain, negative results indicate weight loss.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered a significant weight change?
A: Generally, >5% change in 1 month or >10% in 6 months is clinically significant, though context matters.

Q2: Does the calculator work for both kg and pounds?
A: Yes, as long as both weights are in the same unit, the percentage calculation will be accurate.

Q3: Why is percentage change better than absolute change?
A: Percentage change accounts for the person's starting weight, making it more meaningful for comparison across individuals.

Q4: When should I be concerned about weight changes?
A: Unintentional changes >5% in a month or patterns of continued loss/gain should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Q5: How often should I track my weight?
A: For most people, weekly tracking is sufficient. Daily fluctuations are normal and may reflect hydration status more than actual changes.

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