Body Mass Index (BMI) is a widely used indicator for assessing a person’s overall body health based on their weight and height. It is a useful tool to track health risks related to obesity and overweight issues. This guide will provide you with the fundamental understanding of how to calculate BMI, ensuring accurate results as you keep track of your health status.
Step 1: Measure Height and Weight
Before beginning the BMI calculation, collect accurate measurements of your height and weight. Measure your height in inches (in) and weight in pounds (lb).
Step 2: Apply the BMI Formula
The BMI formula using the English system is as follows:
BMI = (Weight in pounds / (Height in inches)^2) x 703
This equation first requires you to square your height in inches. Depending on your calculator, you may either find a square function or manually multiply your height by itself.
Step 3: Calculate BMI
Utilize the BMI formula from Step 2 and input your weight in pounds and height in inches.
A Guide to Understanding BMI Results
Overweight
A body mass index (BMI) between 25.0 and 29.9 suggests an excessive quantity of body fat. This is a risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and even certain forms of cancer.
Underweight
A body mass index (BMI) below 18.5 implies a lower-than-average amount of body fat and, hence, being underweight. Problems with nutrition, the immunological system, and muscular mass loss are all possible outcomes.
Normal
If your body mass index (BMI) is between 18.5 and 24.9, you have a reasonable level of body fat and are considered to have a healthy weight. The risk of developing health issues due to excess weight is lowest within this range.
In order to establish a person’s health state and potential dangers, healthcare practitioners employ a number of other measurements in addition to BMI. Overall health and the probability of getting particular medical diseases may be influenced by both genetic and lifestyle variables, such as degree of physical activity, smoking, and alcohol use.
In conclusion, being able to interpret the findings of a body mass index (BMI) calculation may aid in the making of educated health choices and the pursuit of a healthy weight. Nevertheless, an accurate assessment of general health and dangers requires consultation with a skilled healthcare expert.
