Body Mass Index
September 10, 2008
Your BMI is an objective scientific measure, that uses your height and weight. One variable BMI fails to consider is lean body mass. It is possible for a healthy, muscular individual with very low body fat to be classified obese using the BMI formula.
Click to view Body Mass Index Chart.
If your
BMI is below 20:
This indicates a lean BMI, which means you have a low amount of
body fat. If you are an athlete, this can be desirable. If you are
not an athlete, a lean BMI can indicate that your weight may be too
low which may lower your immunity. If your BMI and body weight are
low, you should consider gaining weight through good diet and
exercise habits, to increase your muscle mass.
If your
BMI is between 20 and 22:
This indicates the ideal, healthy amount of body fat, which is
associated with living longest, and the lowest incidence of serious
illness.
If your
BMI is between 22 and 25:
This is still considered an acceptable range, and is associated
with good health.
If your
BMI is between 25 and 30:
You should find ways to lower your weight, through diet and
exercise. You are at increased risk for a variety of illnesses at
your present weight. You should lose weight by changing your diet
and exercising more.
If your
BMI is over 30:
This indicates an unhealthy condition, you are at risk for heart
disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, gall bladder disease and
some cancers. You should lose weight by changing your diet and
exercising more.
