Understanding Body Mass Index (BMI)

What does BMI mean?

BMI is a calculation based on an individual's weight and height. It is calculated by dividing an individual's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters (kg/m²). 

This simple numerical value is validated by research to estimate body fat levels.

How to interpret your BMI score?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has established the following BMI categories:

  • Underweight: BMI < 18.5
  • Normal weight: BMI 18.5 - 24.9
  • Overweight: BMI 25.0 - 29.9
  • Obese: BMI ≥ 30.0

Understanding BMI’s Limitations


  1.  Doesn't account for body composition:

BMI does not differentiate between lean muscle mass and fat mass, which can lead to misleading results for individuals with a high muscle-to-fat ratio, such as athletes or bodybuilders.

  1. Variations across populations:

BMI may not be as accurate for certain ethnic groups or individuals with different body types or bone structures.

  1. Doesn't consider age or gender:

BMI does not take into account age or gender, which can influence body fat distribution and health risks.

It's always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation of your overall health and to develop personalized strategies for maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle.

Browse full blog-

https://www.freedomfromdiabetes.org/blog/post/body-mass-index-bmi/3957

Contact us :-

Mob : +91-7776077760

Email-Id : info@freedomfromdiabetes.org

Also connect with us on our website , Facebook page, and youtube