All About BMI
Who isn't concerned about their health and therefore about their weight? In fact, many of us dread the numbers we will see on the bathroom scale each time we dare to step aboard. So is just monitoring our weight enough? Should we strive to be our ideal weight – how can we calculate our ideal weight? Well, that's where the BMI comes in.
BMI stands for Body Mass Index. It is basically a diagnostic tool in identifying weight problems within a population. This formula was invented by Adolphe Quetelet in the 19thcentury during the development of his "social physics", but it wasn't until the 1970's when it was coined as BMI by Ancel Keys.
Okay – BMI can seem complicated at first but it's really not once you get the hang of it. Here's how it works. BMI is calculated by dividing your body weight by the square of your height. Like this:
BMI = weight (kg)
———————
height x height (m2)
The outcome will supposedly tell you whether you are underweight, overweight, or obese. Given this calculation, a person's optimal weight will be calculated as 18.5 to 24.9. Measurements less than 18.5 means that you're underweight while measurements that range from 25.0 to 29.9 indicate an overweight body. If you measure 30.0, then you are considered obese.
But a word of caution; the BMI calculation does not take into account factors like your frame size or your muscularity. This means that if you are an athlete, your BMI may fall in the overweight category despite the fact that you have a lean body. This is due to the fact that muscles are much denser than fat and they contribute to your overall body weight.
Studies have proven the inaccuracies with these calculations. However, it is still a good tool to use as an overall guide in determining body mass.
Despite claims to inaccuracy BMI calculations are still being used in the medical profession as a guide for the physical assessment of a patient's health but not as a sole basis for diagnosis. While they may be an acceptable formula for sedentary individuals, some adjustments should be made for athletes, children and the elderly to give a more accurate representation. Also, the BMI, as it is, is an accurate enough measurement in detecting very overweight or very underweight people.
So while there is no alternative yet, the BMI is a good choice for you to use as a guide to staying fit and healthy. Just remember to always have a talk with your health care provider to monitor your weight loss or weight gain progress closely. And just another reminder – until the end of June you can get Pounds Away for only $11.95. This is a healthy and holistic approach to weight loss.
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