Weight Management|What is the Body Mass Index (BMI)

iet and Weight Management

hat Is Body Mass Index

The body mass index (BMI) is a new term to most people.

However, it is now the measurement of choice for many

physicians and researchers studying obesity.

The BMI uses a mathematical formula that accounts for both

a person's weight and height. The BMI equals a person's weight

in kilograms divided by height in meters squared (BMI=kg/m2).

The BMI measurement however, poses some of the same

problems as the weight-for-height tables. Not everyone agrees

on the cutoff points for "healthy" versus "unhealthy" BMI ranges.

BMI also does not provide information on a person's percentage

of body fat. However, like the weight-for-height table, BMI is a

useful general guideline and is a good estimator of body fat for

most adults between the ages of 19 and 70 years of age.

However, it may not be an accurate measurement of body fat

for body builders, certain athletes, and pregnant women.

It is important to understand what "healthy weight" means.

Healthy weight is defined as a body mass index (BMI) equal

to or greater than 19 and less than 25 among all people aged

20 or over. Generally, obesity is defined as a body mass

index (BMI) equal to or greater than 30, which approximates

30 pounds of excess weight. Excess weight also places people

at risk of developing serious health problems.

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