Have you heard of the BMI? Do you need a hint? It is the body mass index. Practical and easy to use, it is much more than a measurement tool. It will guide you towards achieving a healthy weight.
If too high or too low, your weight can become the enemy of your health and well-being. In fact, being overweight increases the risk of diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and some types of cancer. Conversely, low weight can lead to deficient immune function as well as osteoporosis and infertility.
The body mass index is a reliable tool that will help you find out where you stand in relation to your optimal weight. This measurement is scientifically accepted as defining healthy weight. So, it is strongly recommended that you try to reach and maintain this weight because it is a sign of your well-being.
The calculation of the BMI is easy. You just need to know your weight (in kilograms) and your height (in metres). Then you divide your weight by the square of your height. For example:
If your weight is 68 kilos and your height 1.72 metres.
68 ÷ (1.72 X 1.72) = 23
Your BMI is 23. For the conversion of measurement units, please use the following tools:
It is important to mention that the BMI calculation is not recommended for everyone. It is suitable for people aged 18 and above only. Pregnant or breastfeeding women as well as athletes and bodybuilders should not use it. The BMI is not perfect. In fact, it does not take into account muscle mass, bone structure, and fat distribution, which can lead to distorted results.
Once your BMI has been calculated, you must understand the implication of the result.
If your result is smaller than 18.5, your weight is below the optimal weight for your height. Ask your healthcare professional for advice on how to gain weight without affecting your health adversely.
If your result falls between 18.5 and 24.9, your weight is in the healthy range. Make sure you maintain it with a healthy diet and physical activity.
If your result falls between 25.0 and 29.9, you are overweight. This may cause problems. Consult your healthcare professional to obtain advice on a healthy diet and exercise programs.
If your result falls between 30.0 and 34.9, you are suffering from obesity. Your weight predisposes you to health problems such as the ones mentioned above. Consult your healthcare professional to obtain advice on losing weight safely.
If your result is above 35, you are suffering from severe obesity. Your excess weight jeopardizes your health. Consult your healthcare professional without delay for solutions adapted to your needs.
The calculation of your body mass index is reliable and easy to use. It can help you determine if your risk of developing certain health problems is higher. Combined with the measurement of your waistline, these two tools represent an excellent way of optimizing your health. Use them!
