ideal weight : Problems with the Devine Formula for Ideal Body Weight

As descibed above, the Devine IBW formula suggests ideal body weight values that are too low in women generally and impossibly low in short women. Since the Devine formula is used by hundreds (perhaps thousands) of websites to suggest goals for weight loss, it is important to point out its limitations. The other formulas are rarely (if ever) seen on websites.

The Robinson and Miller formulas would perform poorly for tall men. The best compromise, in my opinion, is to use the Devine formula for Men, and use the Robinson formula for Women. In Men, the average suggested weight by the Devine formula, would give a BMI of 23.0. In Women, the average suggested weight by the Robinson formula, would give a BMI of 21.1.

However, these formulas have no method to compensate for Age and Current Weight. They are only based on Height. For people who are very overweight or obese, the Devine, Robinson and Miller formulas would suggest an ideal weight that is virtually impossible to achieve or maintain through dieting.

by Steven B. Halls, MD. Copyright