BMI

Have you ever heard about BMI?

If you have, have you considered knowing what your BMI is?

You're probably wondering what all this questions is about, well today we'll be learning about the importance of BMI.

Don't stop reading now, sit back and enjoy your read!

BMI, Body Mass Index is a measure of body fat based on the height and the body weight that applies to adult men and women. BMI is an inexpensive and easy screening method for weight category, underweight, healthy weight, overweight and obesity.

BMI does not measure body fat directly but it is moderately correlated with more direct measures of body fat. There are other methods to measure body fat but BMI is an inexpensive one unlike the others which require a highly trained personnel and they are expensive.

How is BMI calculated?

Body Mass Index is a person's body weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters. 

BMI = Body Weight/(Height)²

BMI is calculated the same way for both adults and children.

How BMI is interpreted?

For adults 20 years old and older, BMI is interpreted using the standard weight status categories. These categories are the same for men and women of all body types and ages.

Below 18.5 - Underweight

18.5-24.9 - Healthy Weight

25.0-29.9 - Overweight

30.0 and above -  Obesity

The essence of knowing your BMI;

1. The interpretation of the BMI will help to detect if there's any underlying health risks you may face if it is outside the healthy range.

2. It can help a doctor determine your overall fitness and the risk of developing chronic diseases e.g type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure etc.

BMI is a good measure of your health but it is not perfect as it is not a completely reliable assessment for every body type nevertheless know your BMI, Visit any local medical centre to do that.

Thanks for reading! 

Article by:

Iyiola Grace Omowumi

Food, Nutrients & Health

......................................................

For other related articles,

Return to Homepage.

Reference: 

cdc.com 

chatswood medical and dental