Body Mass Index (BMI)

Body Mass Index (BMI) is the most convenient and accurate way to calculate a person's body fat. The formula takes into account weight and height, to provide a quick measure of a person's health status. An individual should have a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 to be considered healthy. A high BMI can indicate unhealthy levels of body fat. Low BMI may indicate that an individual is underweight, malnourished, etc.

If you're wondering what your Body Mass Index means, it's a way for doctors to establish whether or not an individual is in a healthy weight range.

To calculate BMI, the following formula applies: BMI = ([Weight in pounds]/[Height in inches]^2). Then multiplying by a conversion factor of 703.

People with a high BMI are at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and coronary artery disease. These conditions lead to the development of other chronic illnesses like dementia and cancer. It has been found that people with a high BMI suffer from more depression than those with normal weight.

One of the most important things you can do for your long-term health is to maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of many chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. Not only that, but it also causes an increase in mortality rates and a reduction in life expectancy. The good news is that you don't have to be too thin to stay healthy - any BMI between 18 and 24 is considered healthy.

Categories of BMI values

A BMI of less than 18.5 indicates that you are underweight, so you may need to put on some weight. You are recommended to ask your doctor or a dietitian for advice. A BMI of 18.5-24.9 indicates that you are at a healthy weight for your height. By maintaining a healthy weight, you lower your risk of developing serious health problems. A BMI of 25-29.9 indicates that you are slightly overweight. You may be advised to lose some weight for health reasons. You are recommended to talk to your doctor or a dietitian for advice. A BMI of over 30 indicates that you are heavily overweight. Your health may be at risk if you do not lose weight. You are recommended to talk to your doctor or a dietitian for advice.