Weight Loss Natural Supplements | Body Mass Index (BMI)

Body Mass Index (BMI)


The body mass index (BMI), can be defined as a statistical measure of the weight of a person scaled according to height. Because of this, it is useful only as a population measure, and should not really be considered appropriate for diagnosing individuals. BMI was invented between the years of 1830 and 1850 by a Belgian polymath by the name of Adolphe Quetelet during the course of developing “social physics”.

In everyday language, body mass index is defined as an individual’s body weight divided by the square of their height. The formulas that are universally used in medicine produce a unit of measure that is known as kg/m2. Body mass index may be accurately calculated using this formula:

SI units \mathrm{BMI} = \frac{\mathit{weight} \ \mathrm{(kg)}}{\mathit{height}^2 (\mathrm{m^2})}

Your BMI can also be found using a BMI chart, which basically displays BMI as a function of weight (horizontal axis) and height (vertical axis) using contour lines for different values of BMI or colors for different BMI categories. An example of a BMI chart can be found below:

BMI Chart

A rough guideline for your BMI is described below.

If you have a BMI that is below 20:

This indicates a BMI that can be described as lean, meaning the amount of body fat you have is low. This is probably ideal if you are an athlete or sportsman, but if you aren’t then a lean BMI could indicate that you are under-weight which could have the effect of lowering your immunity. If you do have a low BMI and body weight, you may want to consider gaining a bit of weight through good diet and exercise habits, therefore increasing your muscle mass.

If you have a BMI that is between 20 and 22:

This is an indicator of an ideal and healthy amount of body fat. This is normally associated with longevity and the lowest incidences of serious illness. Interestingly, it appears that this ratio is what many individuals see as the most aesthetically attractive.

If you have a BMI that is between 22 and 25:

This range is considered acceptable and is still associated with good health.

If you have a BMI that is between 25 and 30:

If you are between these ranges of BMI then you could be considered “Hefty” and should ideally look for ways to lose weight through good diet and exercise. You are considered to be at an increased risk from a range of illnesses at your present weight.

If you have a BMI that is over 30:

Over a 30 BMI rating indicates an unhealthy condition and your excess weight is putting you at risk for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, gall bladder disease and some cancers. You should really try to lose weight by first of all, changing your diet and secondly, exercising more.