What is BMI; How to Get Your BMI in a Healthy Range

BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to both men and women. BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared. A person with a BMI of 30 or more is considered obese. A person with a BMI of 25-29.9 is considered overweight.

So, What is BMI?

For most people, BMI provides a good measure of body fatness. However, BMI does not distinguish between muscle and fat mass. So, someone who is very muscular may have a high BMI even though they have a low percentage of body fat. Conversely, someone who has a lot of body fat may have a low BMI even though they are not healthy. That’s why some experts say that BMI should be used along with other measures of body fatness, such as waist circumference.

How to Calculate Your BMI

1. Convert your weight from pounds to kilograms by dividing by 2.2

2. Convert your height from inches to meters by multiplying by 0.0254

3. Multiply the results of steps 1 and 2

4. Divide the result of step 3 by the result of step 2

The equation should look like this: BMI = (Weight in kilograms / Height in meters squared)

For example, if you weigh 150 pounds and are 5’5″

BMI = (150 / (2.2 x 0.0254)) = 22.9

BMI is not a perfect measure of body fatness, but it is a good indicator for most people. You can use your BMI to find out if you are overweight or obese and to see how much weight you need to lose to be within a healthy range. There are many online calculators that will help you calculate your BMI, or you can talk to your doctor or a nutritionist.

Tools that you can use at home for checking your BMI accurately

Height measurement equipment is essential for those in the medical industry who need to take height and weight measurements for their patients, but you can have one in your home, too. A wall-mounted digital height rod easily converts between three display formats – inches, feet & inches, and centimeters, making it quick and easy to use. The extensive line of measurement stations measures weight + height and calculates Body Mass Index quickly and accurately, so you can quickly and efficiently get the information you need quickly and efficiently. Height measurement equipment is a vital tool for those in the medical industry, and the wall-mounted digital height rod is a great option for those needing a quick and easy way to take height and weight measurements.

A digital scale is an important tool for people who want to monitor their weight. It can be tricky to get an accurate reading, however, which is why the Renpho scale is such a popular choice. This scale can be connected to your phone, providing detailed information about your weight, BMI, and even body fat percentage. In addition, the app also offers personalized tips and advice on how to reach your health goals. As a result, the Renpho scale is an essential piece of equipment for anyone who wants to take their health seriously.

What are the health risks of being obese?

There are many health risks associated with obesity, including:

•Type 2 diabetes

•High blood pressure

•Heart disease

•Stroke

•Cancer (endometrial, breast, colon, kidney, and gallbladder)

•Sleep apnea

•Respiratory problems

•Degenerative joint disease

•Mental health problems (depression, anxiety, low self-esteem)

How can obesity be prevented?

There are several ways that obesity can be prevented, including:

•Eating a healthy diet

•Exercising regularly

•Maintaining a healthy weight

•Not smoking

•Limiting alcohol consumption

•Getting enough sleep

How can obesity be treated?

There are several ways that obesity can be treated, including:

Losing weight through healthy eating and physical activity

Engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week is recommended. Physical activity is not just being up and moving but it is considered physical activity when you break a sweat, your heart rate is increased above its normal range. According to the CDC, for moderate-intensity exercise, aim for a heart rate of 64 percent to 76 percent of your maximum heart rate. When you’re working at the same intensity all day, it’s hard to vary your activity enough so be sure to focus on physical activity for 30 minutes or so that can increase your heart rate.

Eating a healthy diet

Eat a diet that is low in calories and saturated fat, and high in fiber. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and fish. The AHA also recommends limiting the amount of red meat and sugar you eat.

Quitting smoking

Smoking is a leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Smoking increases your risk for heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer. It’s never too late to quit smoking.

Limiting alcohol consumption

If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. That means no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two drinks per day for men.

Getting enough sleep

Most adults need 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Lack of sleep can lead to obesity and other health problems.

Avoiding sugary drinks

Drinking sugar-sweetened beverages, such as sodas and fruit drinks, can contribute to weight gain. These drinks are high in calories and provide little nutritional value. Choose water or unsweetened iced tea instead.

Not eating large portions

Eat smaller portions to help control your weight. When you eat too much, you may not only gain weight but also increase your risk for heart disease and other health problems.

Seeking social support from family, friends, and healthcare professionals.

Obesity can be a difficult condition to manage on your own. Turn to family, friends, and healthcare professionals for support.

Behavioral therapy

 

Behavioral therapy may help some people lose weight. Behavioral therapy focuses on changing the thoughts and behaviors that may contribute to obesity.

Surgery

Surgery may be an option for people who are severely obese and have health problems related to their weight. Weight loss surgery is a type of surgery used to help people lose weight. It is not a cure for obesity but it may help some people lose weight and keep it off. A few surgical options available are gastric bypass surgery, gastric sleeve surgery, and adjustable gastric banding surgery.

Medication to aid in weight loss

A few medications that can be used include orlistat, liraglutide, phentermine-topiramate, naltrexone-bupropion, and lorcaserin. Medications by themselves will not fix the problem. It is an aid, not a quick fix. So, following recommendations from your doctor on increasing physical activity, eating healthy, and following the above tips are necessary.

Conclusion

There are many ways to treat obesity. Some people may need surgery, while others may just need to make changes to their diet and physical activity. No matter what treatment you choose, it is important to remember that obesity is a serious condition that requires lifelong management. I hope this article answered your question, “What is BMI?” Please let us know if you have additional questions.