Understand Your Body Mass Index
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple measure using your height and weight to work out if your weight is healthy. It's used by healthcare professionals to assess if someone is at risk of health issues related to their weight.
| BMI Range | Category | Health Implications |
|---|---|---|
| Under 18.5 | Underweight | May indicate nutritional deficiencies, weakened immune system |
| 18.5 - 24.9 | Healthy Weight | Optimal range for most adults, lowest risk of health issues |
| 25.0 - 29.9 | Overweight | Increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure |
| 30.0 or higher | Obese | High risk of diabetes, cardiovascular issues, joint problems |
BMI doesn't distinguish between weight from muscle and weight from fat. Athletes or muscular individuals might have a high BMI but not be overweight. It also may not be suitable for elderly people or certain ethnic groups.
| Category | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Diet | • Balanced meals with proteins, carbs, and healthy fats • 5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily • Limited processed foods and sugars |
| Exercise | • 150 minutes of moderate activity per week • Strength training 2-3 times weekly • Regular stretching and flexibility work |
| Lifestyle | • 7-9 hours of sleep nightly • 8 glasses of water daily • Stress management through meditation or relaxation |
| Monitoring | • Regular BMI checks • Monthly body measurements • Regular health check-ups |