Body Mass Index, or BMI, is a calculated number that comes from a person’s height and weight. It is a pretty reliable gauge of body fat. It does not directly measure body fat, but studies show a direct relation of BMI with directly measuring body fat. It is an alternative way to measure body fat. It is a cheap and simple way to test for categories that can cause health issues.

It is used as a way to identify possible weight issues in adults. It is not an analytical method. A person can have an elevated BMI; but, a doctor needs to evaluate them for a possible health risk.

To assess how many individuals are overweight and obese, BMI is the best method. Since tallness and weight is the only information needed, it is low cost and easy for doctors or the public to do. BMI enables individuals to judge their weight against others.

To figure BMI, use weight/tallness squared for kilograms and weight/tallness squared x 703 for pounds and inches. This method is used for both adults and children.

For those 20 year or older, BMI is interpreted using standard weight categories that are the same for all ages and for both men and women. Children and teens, the interpretation of BMI is both age and sex specific.

The normal weight guidelines for adults are:’. 5 to 24. 9 underweight, 25. 0 to 29. 0 overweight, 30 or more obese.

There is a strong link between body fat and the BMI number. Link does vary by sex, race and age.

When trying to determine someone’s risk for developing diseases or illness related to obesity, BMI is not the only thing to look at. The size of the person’s waist and any illnesses or diseases that are known to be caused by obesity, need to be addressed.

BMI group status puts people into the overweight group is their BMI number is over 25. For those with a BMI of 30 or more, they fall into the group of obese.

Remember, though, that BMI does not directly measure body fat and that it is figured from a person’s weight which includes muscle and fat. So, some may have a high BMI but not have a high percentage of body fat. The majority of those with a BMI in the 30 or higher range have higher levels of body fat.

Risks related to disease include numerous factors not just weight. Remember this when figuring your BMI.

Individuals who are obese or overweight have a significantly increased chance of developing issues or diseases caused by weight problems. Disease, death and weight are all part of the BMI range.

Figuring BMI for children is done the same way as it is for adults. The rules that are used are different. BMI, in children, is specific according to age and sex because body fat changes with age. Girls and boys have differences in body fat.

After being calculated, the number is placed on the CDC BMI for age growth charts to discover the percentage. They are the most widely used gauge to determine the size and growth patterns of children in the United States. The percentile points to the relative position of the child’s BMI number with others of the same age and sex. The growth charts show the weight status categories used with children and teens.

Learn more about your body mass index. Stop by Greg White’s site where you can find an easy to use BMI calculator and many more interactive health tools.

categories: body mass index,bmi,diet,weight,weightloss,exercise,obesity,anorexia,fitness

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