The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a much more accurate calculation tool than a scale, which assesses the risks associated with being overweight or thin.
Used from adolescence as part of health checkups or before starting a diet, BMI is considered one of the most reliable scales to determine its ideal weight to be in good health.
The different levels of BMI
Overweight, too lean, in the standard ... To determine at what stage we are, we calculate its BMI by dividing its weight (X) by its size (Y) squared , ie: X / Y². Depending on the result, you can land in 4 different categories:
- Less than 16.5: Undernutrition or famine
- From 16.5 to 18.5: Lackiness
- From 18.5 to 25: Normal body
- From 25 to 30: Overweight
- From 30 to 35: Moderate obesity
- From 35 to 40: Severe obesity
- More than 40: Morbid Obesity
For example, for a person who weighs 58 kg for 1m65, the calculation is: 58 / 1.65² = 21.3. With a BMI of 21.3, this person has a normal corpulence.
Warning: if you can calculate your own BMI, it is imperative to consult a doctor if it is less than 18.5 or greater than 25.
BMI: an indicator to be handled with care
Although BMI is a reliable calculation tool, it has some limitations, since it does not take into account muscle and bone masses. So if you have a strong frame or you are very sporty, your BMI could indicate that you are overweight ... without you really being!
In this case, only a doctor will be able to tell you if your body is normal, calculating your body fat, bone and muscle. Hence the importance of consulting a health professional.
