Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation used to assess whether an individual’s weight is healthy relative to their height. It provides a general indication of body fat and is widely used by healthcare professionals for health screening.
The BMI is calculated using the formula:
Calculate Your BMI
Enter your height and weight to calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI).
Why Should You Monitor Your BMI?
Monitoring your BMI is an essential step toward understanding your health and maintaining a healthy weight. A high or low BMI can indicate potential health risks, such as:
Low BMI (Underweight):
May lead to malnutrition, osteoporosis, and weakened immunity.
Increased susceptibility to infections and complications.
High BMI (Overweight/Obese):
Linked to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnea.
Can cause joint issues and reduced quality of life.
How to Interpret BMI Results
Underweight (BMI < 18.5): Focus on a balanced, nutrient-rich diet to gain healthy weight.
Healthy Weight (BMI 18.5 – 24.9): Maintain your weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet.
Overweight/Obese (BMI ≥ 25): Incorporate lifestyle changes like regular exercise, a healthy diet, and medical consultations.
Limitations of BMI
While BMI is a useful health metric, it has certain limitations:
Doesn’t Consider Muscle Mass: Athletes with high muscle mass may have a high BMI but low body fat.
Doesn’t Reflect Fat Distribution: Abdominal fat (visceral fat) carries higher health risks than fat in other areas.
Not Suitable for Certain Groups: Children, elderly individuals, and pregnant women may require specialized assessments.