The Body Mass Index (or BMI) is a way of seeing if your weight is appropriate for your height. The calculation is your weight (in kilograms) divided by your height (in metres) squared.
BMI Classification:
18.5 or less Underweight
18.5 to 24.99 Normal Weight
25 to 29.99 Overweight
30 to 34.99 Obesity (Class 1)
35 to 39.99 Obesity (Class 2)
40 or greater Morbid Obesity
BMI can be divided into several categories and generally the higher your BMI the more the risk of a large number of medical problems.
BMI charts are calculated for adults only between the ages of 18 to 65. Separate charts are available for children. BMI is not always the most accurate indicator of healthy body fat levels as those with greater than average muscle-mass, for example athletes, will have a higher body fat index or BMI but may still have a lower than average body fat percentage.
As BMI is based on weight and height by losing weight you will reduce your Body Fat Index and put yourself into a lower category risk group. A healthy diet consisting of a balance of food groups, vitamins and minerals, is essential for a long and active life. Your body weight and body shape are a balance of energy intake from food and drink against output (calorific burn from activity & exercise).
Studies have shown that to slowly and steadily lose weight any diet which includes a healthy balance will work if you’re motivated. Ideally a low fat, high fibre diet is best but low calorie diets, low-carb diets, meal replacement diets or simply reducing portion size will work as long as you’re not taking in too much energy for your body’s individual needs. To lose 1lb /week you need to take in 500 calories less every day. A gentle programme of exercise for 20 – 30 minutes, 3 to 4 times a week, will burn calories whilst being performed but will increase metabolism throughout the rest of the day.
EAT LESS AND EXERCISE MORE! (If only it were that simple!)
