The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) determines a healthy weight range for 17-year-olds using Body Mass Index (BMI) percentiles.

✔ For a 17-year-old boy (69 inches / 5’9”):56 – 76 kg (120 – 168 lbs)

✔ For a 17-year-old girl (64 inches / 5’4”):45 – 66 kg (100 – 146 lbs)

📌 Note: Weight varies significantly depending on height, genetics, muscle mass, and lifestyle habits.

📌 Why It Matters:

• Below the 5th percentile: Underweight
• 5th – 85th percentile: Healthy weight
• 85th – 95th percentile: Overweight
• Above 95th percentile: Obese

According to the CDC growth charts, a 17-year-old is considered overweight if their weight is above the 85th percentile for their height and age.

✔ For a 17-year-old boy (5’9”) → Overweight if above 168 lbs (76 kg)

✔ For a 17-year-old girl (5’4”) → Overweight if above 146 lbs (66 kg)

📌 Obesity is classified as a weight above the 95th percentile (for example, over 196 lbs for boys and over 175 lbs for girls).

🚨 Why Does It Matter?

Carrying excess weight in adolescence can increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, joint pain, and low self-esteem.

A 17-year-old is considered underweight if their weight falls below the 5th percentile for their age and height.

✔ For a 17-year-old boy (5’9”) → Underweight if below 120 lbs (56 kg)

✔ For a 17-year-old girl (5’4”) → Underweight if below 100 lbs (45 kg)

🚨 Risks of Being Underweight

• Weakened immune system
• Delayed puberty and hormonal imbalances
• Higher risk of osteoporosis later in life
• Possible nutrient deficiencies (iron, calcium, vitamin D)

📌 If a teen is underweight, focus on a nutrient-dense diet with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.

A teen’s weight is influenced by multiple factors, including:

✔ 1️⃣ Genetics – Family history plays a major role.

✔ 2️⃣ Nutrition – A balanced diet with essential nutrients supports a healthy weight.

✔ 3️⃣ Physical Activity – Active teens tend to have healthier body compositions.

✔ 4️⃣ Hormones & Puberty – Growth spurts and puberty can cause weight fluctuations.

✔ 5️⃣ Sleep Quality – Poor sleep can impact metabolism and appetite.

✔ 6️⃣ Mental Health – Stress and anxiety can lead to overeating or loss of appetite.

✔ 7️⃣ Medications & Medical Conditions – Some conditions (thyroid issues, diabetes, or eating disorders) can affect weight.

📌 Did You Know? Teens need 8–10 hours of sleep per night for proper metabolism and growth.

✔️ 1. Eat a Balanced Diet 🍎🥦

✔ Protein-rich foods – Eggs, fish, chicken, beans, tofu

✔ Healthy fats – Avocados, nuts, olive oil

✔ Whole grains – Brown rice, whole wheat bread, quinoa

✔ Calcium & vitamin D – Dairy, leafy greens, fortified foods

📌 Avoid excess sugar, processed foods, and soda.

✔️ 2. Stay Active 🏀🤾‍♂️

✔ Aim for 60 minutes of activity daily

✔ Best exercises for teens: swimming, running, weight training, cycling

✔ Strength training can help build muscle and improve metabolism

📌 Active teens tend to have lower body fat and healthier weights.

✔️ 3. Get Enough Sleep 😴

✔ Sleep regulates hunger hormones (ghrelin & leptin)

✔ Lack of sleep can lead to weight gain

✔ Avoid screens 1 hour before bed

✔ Teens should sleep at least 8-10 hours every night.

Pro Tip: Monitor your teen’s sleep quality with our Sleep Cycle Calculator to help ensure they get the restorative sleep needed for optimal health.

📌 Teens should sleep at least 8-10 hours every night.

✔️ 4. Manage Stress & Mental Health 🧠

✔ Practice meditation, deep breathing, or journaling

✔ Reduce excessive screen time & social media comparisons

✔ Seek help from a therapist if struggling with anxiety or depression

📌 For personalized guidance on your teen’s weight or any health concerns, consider an Online Consultation. Expert advice can help tailor recommendations specific to your child’s needs.

1️⃣ Can a 17-year-old still grow taller?

✔ Yes, some boys grow until 20, while girls typically stop growing by 16-17.

2️⃣ Is 5’7 short for a 17-year-old boy?

✔ It is slightly below average but within the normal range.

3️⃣ Can a 17-year-old lose weight safely?

✔ Yes, through healthy eating & exercise – avoid crash dieting.

4️⃣ What’s a normal BMI for a 17-year-old?

✔ A BMI between 18.5 – 24.9 is considered healthy.

✔ For Boys (5’9”):120 – 168 lbs

✔ For Girls (5’4”):100 – 146 lbs

✔ Weight depends on genetics, activity level, and lifestyle

📌 Instead of focusing on weight alone, encouragehealthy habits like balanced eating, exercise, and good sleep.