Final answer:
Obesity is diagnosed in individuals with a body mass index greater than 30 kg/m². The optimal body fat percentage for a female is between 20 and 32 percent. Overweight is defined as a BMI of 25 to 29.9 kg/m².
Step-by-step explanation:
When discussing body fat percentage and obesity, it's important to understand that obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30 kg/m². According to the information provided, obese individuals are at least 20 percent heavier than their healthy weight range, and the excess body fat is linked to various severe diseases, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Females, specifically, have more fat mass compared to males, which is necessary for reproduction and influenced by hormonal levels. There isn't a specific body fat percentage mentioned to define a female as 'overfat'; however, the optimal body fat content for a female is cited to be between 20 and 32 percent for health reasons.
A BMI between 25 and 29.9 kg/m² is considered overweight, while a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher signifies obesity. Morbid obesity is diagnosed at a BMI ≥ 35 kg/m² accompanied by obesity-related health problems or a BMI ≥ 40 kg/m².