Understanding Your BMI Results
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, overweight and obesity in adults. It is defined as the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in metres (kg/m²).
The Official BMI Categories
- Underweight: BMI is less than 18.5
- Normal weight: BMI is 18.5 to 24.9
- Overweight: BMI is 25 to 29.9
- Obesity: BMI is 30 or greater
Why BMI Matters
While BMI does not directly measure body fat, it is a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people. It is used as a screening tool to identify potential weight problems in adults. Elevated BMI is a risk factor for diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, gallstones, breathing problems, and certain cancers.
Limitations of BMI
It's important to remember that BMI is just one factor in your overall health. It does not account for muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, or racial and sex differences. Athletes, for instance, may have a high BMI due to increased muscle mass rather than high body fat.