What is (BMI) Body Mass Index?

Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. It is calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by their height in meters squared (kg/m^2). The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a normal BMI as being between 18.5 and 24.9. A BMI below 18.5 is considered underweight, while a BMI of 25 or higher is considered overweight. A BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese.

BMI is a widely used tool for identifying people who are at an increased risk of health problems related to being overweight or obese, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. However, it is important to note that BMI is not a perfect measure of body fat, as it does not take into account factors such as muscle mass and distribution of fat in the body.

For example, athletes and people with a lot of muscle mass may have a high BMI but may not have excess body fat. On the other hand, people with a high percentage of body fat may have a normal BMI if they have a low amount of muscle mass. It is always important to discuss your weight and overall health with a healthcare professional to determine the best approach for managing your weight and reducing your risk of related health problems.