Understand and Calculate Your BMI : A Complete Guide
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure commonly used to assess the weight ofa person as a function of its weight and size. Simple to calculate, the BMI is a useful indicator to determine if a person has a healthy weight, is overweight or suffers fromobesity. In this article, we will explore whatis the BMI is, how it is calculated, and how to interpret its results to better understand your state of health. At the end of thearticle, you will find a calculator handy to easily determine your BMI.
What is BMI ?
Definition of the BMI
The BMI, or Body Mass Index, is an indicator that allows us toassess the body weight ofan adult person. It is calculated by dividing the weight ofa person (in kilograms) by the square of his height (in meters). The BMI is used by health professionals to identify potential risks related to the weight, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and some forms of cancer.
The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies BMI into different categories, ranging from underweight to obesity, in order to determine the levels of risk associated with each category.
How to calculate BMI ?
The calculation of the BMI is simple and fast. Here’s the basic formula :
$$\text{IMC} = \frac{\text{Poids (kg)}}{\text{Taille (m)}^2}$$For example, if you weigh 70 kg and measure 1.75 m, your BMI is calculated as follows
$$\text{IMC} = \frac{70}{1.75 \times 1.75} \approx 22.86$$This BMI of 22,86 is located in the ‘normal weight’ category according to the criteria of theWHO.
How to Interpret the Results of theBMI ?
The different categories of theBMI
Here are the different categories ofBMI established by theWorld Health Organization (WHO) :
- Underweight : BMI less than 18.5
- Normal weight : BMI between 18.5 and 24.9
- Overweight : BMI between 25 and 29.9
- Obese : BMI between 30 and 34.9
- Severe obesity : BMI between 35 and 39.9
- Morbid obesity : BMI greater than or equal to 40
Limitations of theBMI
Although theBMI is a useful indicator to assess the health risk associated with weight, it has its limits. For example, theBMI does not take into account body composition, that is to say, the proportion of fat, muscle, andbone. An athlete very muscular can have a high BMI without being overweight or in poor health. In addition, theBMI does not take into account the distribution of body fat, an important factor for assessing the risk of disease.
Why is it important to know your BMI ?
Understand the risks associated with overweight or obesity
A high BMI is often associated with an increased risk of health problems, such as heart disease, thehigh blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and some forms of cancer. Knowing your BMI can help you identify these risks and to take measures to achieve or maintain a healthy weight.
Use the BMI as the starting point
TheBMI can be an excellent starting point to assess your general state of health. However, it is essential for theuse in conjunction withother measures, such as waist circumference, thebody composition analysis, and assessments of your doctor, to get a complete picture of your health.
Calculate Your BMI Now
We have created a calculator of BMI easy-to-use to allow you to quickly find out your body mass index. Simply enter your weight and your size below to find out your BMI and know in which category you’re in.
Calculateur d'IMC
Conclusion
The BMI is a simple and powerful tool to evaluate your weight in relation to your size and determine if you are within a range of healthy weight. Althoughit has some limitations, the BMI can be a useful starting point to better understand your health and take action if necessary. Use our calculator of BMI to assess your own BMI and you should always consult a health professional for a more comprehensive assessment.
