Body mass index range and their meaning
BMI, or Body mass index range, is a widely used measurement that helps determine if a person is at a healthy weight for their height.
BMI is calculated by dividing a person’s weight (in kilograms)by their height (in meters) squared. The resulting number is then compared to a range of values to determine if a person is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and other health organizations around the world use BMI ranges as a guide to evaluate the risk of health problems associated with excess body weight. These BMI ranges are as follows:
Underweight: BMI below 18.5
Normal weight: BMI between 18.5 – 24.9
Overweight: BMI between 25-29.9
Obese: BMI 30 – 34.9
Underweight: - Body mass index range
Normal weight:
A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered to be in the normal weight range. This is generally considered to be a healthy weight range, as it is associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Overweight: Body mass index range
Your BMI falls between 25 and 29.9, you are considered to be overweight. Being overweight is associated with an increased risk of health problems such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Losing weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of these health problems.
Obese: Body mass index range
If your BMI is 30 or higher, you are considered to be obese. Obesity is associated with an increased risk of serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Obesity can also lead to other health problems such as sleep apnea, joint problems, and infertility. Losing weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of these health problems.
Conclusion:
It’s important to remember that BMI is just one tool used to evaluate health risk associated with weight. Other factors such as waist circumference, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels should also be taken into consideration.
Additionally, BMI may not be accurate for athletes or people with a lot of muscle mass, as muscle weighs more than fat.
In conclusion, BMI ranges provide a useful guide to evaluate if a person is at a healthy weight for their height. Being underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese can have a significant impact on your overall health and the risk of chronic diseases.
If you are concerned about your weight, talk to your healthcare provider about the best strategies for maintaining a healthy weight and reducing your risk of health problems.
