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.
Using BMI is one of the best techniques for assessing how many people are overweight or obese. Since height and weight are the only numbers needed, it is cheap and simple for doctors and the public to do. BMI lets people compare their weight to the rest of the population.
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.
30 or more means you are obese, 25. 0 to 29. 0 means overweight,'. 5 to 24. 9 means underweight when it comes to the BMI guidelines.
A connection between body and BMI does exist. The connection does differ by sex, race and age.
Remember, BMI is only one factor to consider for risk for disease. To check someone's chances of becoming overweight or obesity related diseases, consider two other factors. The individual's waist circumference is one factor. Other risk factors include diseases and conditions associated with obesity.
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.
Keep in mind that weight is only one thing to consider when thinking about disease related risks.
BMI ranges are based on the connection of body weight, disease and death. Overweight or obese people are at a greater risk for many health conditions and diseases.
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.
Compute your body mass index easily by visiting the HealthStatus.com website and use their quick and easy BMI calculator.