‍Body mass index (BMI) is an indirect measurement of body fat based on a person’s height and weight. While BMI does not directly measure body fat, “the correlation between the BMI and body fatness is fairly strong” (CDC, 2022). BMI levels can help you determine if you are underweight, overweight, obese, or at a normal weight. According to researchers at Harvard University, the higher your BMI levels are, generally you are more at risk for developing conditions such as:

• Diabetes
• Arthritis
• Liver disease
• Several types of cancer (such as those of the breast, colon, and prostate)
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• High cholesterol
• Sleep apnea

What is a Normal BMI?

Typically, a normal BMI is considered between 18.5 and 25. Please see the chart below to see the categories of BMI:

BMI

• Below 18.5 - Underweight
• 18.5 – 24.9 - Healthy Weight
• 25.0 – 29.9 - Overweight
• 30.0 and Above - Obesity

How to Calculate BMI

Calculating your BMI can be an easy at-home screening to assess if you are at a healthy weight. To measure your BMI, use this formula: weight (lb) / [height (in)] ² x 703

Here is an example with the weight being 150 lbs and the height being 5’5” (65”): [150 ÷ (65)²] x 703 = 24.96

You can also use an online calculator such as the one provided by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute by simply adding your height and weight: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/lose_wt/BMI/bmicalc.htm

Your Health Goes Beyond the Scale

While BMI levels can generally indicate your body fat category, there are limitations to this measurement. For example, some athletes may weigh more due to their muscle mass. Their BMI level may classify them as overweight when they simply have increased muscularity with low body fat levels. BMI does not take into account other health measures such as your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol. Your healthcare provider can perform other health assessments paired with the BMI measurement to see if you are at risk of obesity. Obesity can have serious consequences, especially for older adults. The CDC states that Type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, and other diseases are considered health problems associated with obesity. You can prevent obesity – and the associated risks – by exercising, dieting properly, and listening to the health advice given to you by your provider.

Solis Health Plans encourages you to ask your doctor about what your BMI levels mean for your overall health.

References:

• https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi/adult_bmi/english_bmi_calculator/bmi_calculator.html
• https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/how-useful-is-the-body-mass-index-bmi-201603309339
• https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/lose_wt/BMI/bmicalc.html