What Does Body Mass Index Do?
Body Mass Index is a number that is calculated using an individuals tallness and weight. It is a good, dependable estimate of body fat. BMI does not measure body fat in a direct method. Research has shown relation of BMI with exactly measuring body fat. It is another means of measuring body fat. BMI is easy to figure and costs nothing providing an inexpensive way to test for categories that may cause health concerns.
To help find any probable issues regarding weight in adults BMI can be used. It is not an analytical tool. People can have a high number but should be seen by a doctor to determine if there are any health issues.
To assess how many individuals are overweight and obese, BMI is the best method. Since tallness and weight is the only information needed, it is low cost and easy for doctors or the public to do. BMI enables individuals to judge their weight against others.
Children and adults BMI is calculated the same way. Using kilograms the formula is weight/height squared. For pounds and inches the formula is weight/height squared x 703.
For those 20 year or older, BMI is interpreted using standard weight categories that are the same for all ages and for both men and women. Children and teens, the interpretation of BMI is both age and sex specific.
The standard weight status for adults is as follows:’. 5 to 24. 9 underweight, 25. 0 to 29. 0 overweight, 30 or more obese.
There is a strong link between body fat and the BMI number. Link does vary by sex, race and age.
BMI is not the only factor to consider in regards to risk for disease. To perform a risk assessment of developing obesity or overweight related problems other issues need to be addressed. The individual’s waist size is one issue. The other issue includes all diseases or conditions associated with obesity.
BMI group status puts people into the overweight group is their BMI number is over 25. For those with a BMI of 30 or more, they fall into the group of obese.
Remember, though, that BMI does not directly measure body fat and that it is figured from a person’s weight which includes muscle and fat. So, some may have a high BMI but not have a high percentage of body fat. The majority of those with a BMI in the 30 or higher range have higher levels of body fat.
Also remember that weight is only one factor related to risk for disease.
BMI ranges are based on the connection of body weight, disease and death. Overweight or obese people are at a greater risk for many health conditions and diseases.
Figuring BMI for children is done the same way as it is for adults. The rules that are used are different. BMI, in children, is specific according to age and sex because body fat changes with age. Girls and boys have differences in body fat.
After the BMI is figured, the number is put on the CDC BMI that is used for age growth map to determine the percentile. They are the most widely used technique to find out the size and growth patterns of children in the United States. The percentile points to the corresponding point of the child’s BMI with other children of the same age and sex. The growth map shows the weight status categories used with children and teens.
Learn more about your body mass index. Stop by Greg White’s site where you can find an easy to use BMI calculator and many more interactive health tools.