What is BMI?
BMI is a screening tool used to identify body weight problems in adults. According to World Health Organization reference standard for obesity of BF % is > 25% in men and > 35% in women. Being overweight is a health risk that leads to many diseases and conditions associated with obesity, high blood pressure or physical inactivity.
BMI Factors
- The diagnostic performance of BMI diminished as age increased.
- BMI, women tend to have more body fat than men.
- Athletes may have a high BMI because of increased muscularity rather than increased body fat.
Understanding Your Body Mass Index
BMI is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems but it is not diagnostic of the body fatness or health of an individual. A high BMI can be an indicator of high body fatness.
If your BMI is below 18.5:
Your BMI is considered underweight. Keep in mind that an underweight BMI calculation may pose certain health risks. Please consult with your healthcare provider for more information about BMI calculations.
If your BMI is between 18.5-24.9:
Your BMI is considered normal.
This healthy weight helps reduce your risk of serious health conditions and means you're close to your fitness goals.
If your BMI is between 25-29.9:
Your BMI is considered overweight.
Being overweight may increase your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Consult with your healthcare provider and consider making lifestyle changes through healthy eating and fitness to improve your health. BMI of 27 was found to be ideal for identification of metabolic syndrome in men and women.
If your BMI is above 30:
Your BMI is considered obese. People with obesity are at increased risk for many diseases and health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure (Hypertension), Type 2 diabetes, breathing problems and more. Consult with your healthcare provider and consider making lifestyle changes through healthy eating and fitness to improve your overall health and quality of life.
Risks associated with being overweight
Being overweight increases the risk of a number of serious diseases and health conditions. Below is a list of said risks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- High blood pressure
- Higher levels of LDL cholesterol, which is widely considered "bad cholesterol," lower levels of HDL cholesterol, considered to be good cholesterol in moderation, and high levels of triglycerides.
- Type II diabetes
- Coronary heart disease
- Stroke
- Gallbladder disease
- Osteoarthritis, a type of joint disease caused by breakdown of joint cartilage.
- Sleep apnea and breathing problems.
BMI (Body mass index) is a measure of body fat indicates that are you underweight, overweight or obese. BMI is simply calculeted by your weight and height using standard or metric measures. You can maintain good level of BMI by controlling your diet, regular workout to get a healthy life in the long run.
BMI may controlled by controlling diet, physical exercise to get a healthy life in the long run.
