What is Body Mass Index?

It is a screening measure of body fat and obesity in adults 20 years and older. As BMI increases risks for certain diseases increase along with it. These diseases include heart disease, certain types of cancer, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep disorders, and arthritis.

How Quetelet index is calculated?

It is calculated using your height and weight as inputs. It does not measure fat directly, therefore it used specifically as a screening tool not for diagnosis. Your health care provider will help further explain your BMI score to you and its implications. Despite its accuracy there are certain flaws associated with this measurement. Being overweight does not necessarily mean that your body fat is elevated because BMI overestimates fat in athletes and those with muscular builds. Some ethnic groups may also be at risk of health problems at a lower Quetelet index.

Body Mass Index is a useful means to estimate body fat and risk for developing disease.

What BM index score means

Once you have calculated your BMI using one of the available health calculators you must be interpret what your result means. Always include your healthcare provider in this discussion about results that are outlined below.

  • A BMI of 18.5 – 24.9 is considered normal. It is recommended that you maintain a healthy weight to reduce your risk of developing serious health problems. It can underestimate body fat in people over 65 because of low levels of lean muscle mass. Speak with your healthcare provider about health and wellness strategies.

  • A BMI less than 18.5 it suggests that you may be underweight. You may need to put more weight since being underweight is also associated with health risks such as fragile bones, decreased immune system, anemia, and hair loss. Speak to your healthcare provider for advice about health and wellness strategies.

  • A BMI of 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight. Individuals who are overweight or obese are at risk for certain diseases. Being overweight does not necessarily mean that you are over fat because index of a body mass does not distinguish fat from muscle. Speak to your healthcare provider for advice about well-being strategies.

  • A BMI of 30 or more is considered obese. Individuals who are overweight or obese are at risk for certain diseases. Being overweight does not necessarily mean that you are over fat because this index does not distinguish fat from muscle. Speak to your healthcare provider for advice related to your wellness and health goals.

Body Mass Index is a useful means to estimate body fat and risk for developing disease. The score does not measure fat directly and therefore has some inherent flaws such as overestimating body fat in athletes and underestimating body fat in older adults. You should discuss your BMI score with your healthcare provider, regardless of the number, to assist in the development of health strategies.