Body mass index (BMI) is a value derived from the weight of a person in relation to his height. It is measured by taking your weight in kilogrammes divided by height in metres squared. Most people do not know how to go about the measurement and why they must check their BMI regularly. Simply, it is an index of weight-for-height coined to assess the body composition and obesity in adults.
It is important to note that an accurate BMI can only be measured by certified medical practitioners. Nurses and doctors are the ones able to define patients’ appropriate weight that tallies with their age, sex, and height.
BMI scale that shows 18.5 and below is underweight, 18.5 and 24.9 is normal, while 25 to 29.9 is overweight, and 30 or above is obese and must engage in workout and proper dieting immediately to avoid cardiovascular diseases and other illnesses relating to overweight.
LeVogue takes a look at some facts you should know about the body mass index
1. The BMI is not an excellent measure of body fat
BMI does not measure body fat. It is merely a screening tool that gives you an idea of how you compare to other healthy adults. While BMI can be a useful indicator of body fat, it should never be the only factor put into consideration. When you focus only on BMI, you may miss out on finding out other health-related problems. However, you need to pay attention to your weight and how it is affecting your health.
2. A high BMI does not mean you are overweight.
Contrary to popular opinion, people who have a BMI higher than 25 are not necessarily overweight. BMI formula does not consider all the other variables associated with body weight, and it cannot make any determinations about your overall health.
Other variables need to be taken into consideration to make the results even more conclusive. It is when all these factors are considered in addition to the BMI results that one can get the true measure of one’s condition.
3. Low BMI indices are as worrisome as high indices
There is a general belief that people with BMI indices lower than 18.5 are healthy and not at any risk. This is not always true because such individuals could be in danger as much as the ones that are overweight. There are disadvantages surrounding underweight which may lead to weak immune system, osteoporosis, infertility, etc. Underweight can also be a sign of anorexia or underlying medical diseases that need quick attention.
4. As BMI increases, so does the risk of major health problems
If you have a higher BMI, you’re more likely to have health problems like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, gallbladder disease, sleep apnoea, and osteoarthritis. Obesity also has been linked to an increased risk of several cancers, including oesophageal, pancreatic, colorectal, breast, endometrial and kidney cancers
It is important to remember that BMI is just one factor in determining your overall health. It does not tell the whole story, hence it is important to consider it along with other factors – like age, gender, blood lipid levels, and blood pressure – to determine if you are in good health.
A high BMI doesn’t always mean you’re overweight. It is best to talk to your doctor if you have a BMI considered overweight or underweight.
