Weighing in on obesity and other matters

It's very easy to overindulge this time of year. A look at the alarming obesity (and related illnesses) statistics means that many of us need to take greater control over monitoring and improving our health and fitness. Although we tend to focus on our weight, we know that that is not the only factor in determining fitness level.

Addressing consumers' interest in learning more about their overall body make-up, Tanita Corporation, Arlington Heights, Ill., has introduced the InnerScan Body Composition Monitor (model BC-533, $119.99). By employing a safe, low-level electrical signal, a biolectrical impedance analysis calculates body composition based on the level of resistance and the user's height, weight, and gender.

In addition to displaying weight, body fat, and water percentages, the InnerScan monitors daily caloric intake by estimating the number of calories that can be consumed in the next 24 hours to maintain your weight based on basal metabolic rate; metabolic age rating by comparing your basal metabolic rate to the average age associated with that level of metabolism; visceral fat, located in the abdominal cavity, surrounding the vital organs; muscle mass; bone mass; and physique rating, which is the level of fitness based on the ratio of fat and muscle mass in the body.

This sleek-styled device features glass with brushed chrome accents and can handle anyone up to 330 pounds, and it has a large, easy-to-read LCD display. For more information, visit www.tanita.com.

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