Finding your Body Mass Index
The Body Mass Index or BMI is a statistical measurement for estimating healthy body weights based upon height. Although it doesn't measure actual body fat itself, research shows that it does correlate well with levels of bodily fat. As a result, the body mass index is used internationally for identifying obesity problems, but take note that is not considered appropriate for use as a final individual diagnosis. The BMI measurement is suitable for anyone between the ages of 18 to 60.
The BMI formula was developed by Adolphe Quelet (1796-1874), a Belgium statistician, and was originally known as the Quetelet Index. Put simply, the body mass index is someone's weight divided by the square of their height (or weight divided by height and then divided by height again).
Find My BMI:
| BMI Chart | |
|---|---|
| (as defined by the World Health Organisation) | |
| BMI | Result (for height) |
| Under 18.4 | Underweight |
| 18.5 to 24.9 | Ideal weight |
| 25 to 29.9 | Overweight |
| 30 to 39.9 | Obese |
| 40+ | Very obese |
High BMI? Don't Panic!
Body frame and build MUST be taken into account when calculating your body mass index as it may not necessarily be accurate - for example for muscular athletes, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those over the age of 60 (because bones can weigh less with age). The correlation between BMI and body fat is pretty good, but this does vary with build, age, sex, and even race. For example:
- At the same BMI Women tend to have more body fat than men;
- At the same BMI older people tend to have more body fat than younger adults;
- Athletes may have a high BMI because of muscularity rather than body fat.
So although the body mass index is a pretty good guide for the average person, it should be used as just that - a guide. Body fat can be measured more accurately using body fat scales (try Tanita) or skinfold calipers.
Health risks of being overweight
Being overweight (especially being obese) puts people at increased risk of many diseases and health conditions, including the following:
- Hypertension;
- Type 2 diabetes;
- Coronary heart disease;
- Stroke;
- Gallbladder disease;
- Osteoarthritis;
- Sleep apnea and respiratory problems;
- Some cancers (endometrial, breast, and colon);
- Dyslipidemia (elevation of cholesterol, triglycerides, or both)
Note that having a high body mass index is only one factor for assessing the likelihood of developing weight-related diseases. There are others, in particular:
- Waist circumference. Abdominal fat is a risk predictor for obesity-related diseases;
- Any other related risk factors, such as high blood pressure or physical inactivity.
If you are overweight or obese, you can change this without resorting to drastic measures such as gastric bands, stomach stapling or other obesity operations. Weight-loss is achievable by good old fashioned diet and exercise. Always consult your GP before starting any weight-loss programme.
