What Does Body Mass Index Do?
Thursday, 19 November 2009 09:50 | 
Written by Greg White |
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.
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.
It is used as a way to identify possible weight issues in adults. It is not an analytical method. A person can have an elevated BMI; but, a doctor needs to evaluate them for a possible health risk.
Using BMI is one of the best techniques for assessing how many people are overweight or obese. Since height and weight are the only numbers needed, it is cheap and simple for doctors and the public to do. BMI lets people compare their weight to the rest of the population.
To figure BMI, use weight/tallness squared for kilograms and weight/tallness squared x 703 for pounds and inches. This method is used for both adults and children.
If you are 20 or older, your BMI is based on standard weight groups that apply to all ages and sexes. For children and those under 20 age and sex have to be taken into consideration.
The normal weight guidelines for adults are:'. 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.
Keep in mind that BMI does not measure body fat directly. It is determined using a person's weight and that includes both muscle and fat. It is possible to have a high BMI number but not be fat. Many people with BMIs in the 30 area or higher have higher levels of body fat.
Keep in mind that weight is only one thing to consider when thinking about disease related risks.
Individuals who are obese or overweight have a significantly increased chance of developing issues or diseases caused by weight problems. Disease, death and weight are all part of the BMI range.
When trying to find the BMI for children use the same method as is done for adults. The standards that are used are the only difference. The age or sex of an individual affects the BMI. Body fat can change with age. Boys are different than girls when it comes to body fat.
After being calculated, the number is placed on the CDC BMI for age growth charts to discover the percentage. They are the most widely used gauge to determine the size and growth patterns of children in the United States. The percentile points to the relative position of the child's BMI number with others of the same age and sex. The growth charts show the weight status categories used with children and teens.
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.
It is used as a way to identify possible weight issues in adults. It is not an analytical method. A person can have an elevated BMI; but, a doctor needs to evaluate them for a possible health risk.
Using BMI is one of the best techniques for assessing how many people are overweight or obese. Since height and weight are the only numbers needed, it is cheap and simple for doctors and the public to do. BMI lets people compare their weight to the rest of the population.
To figure BMI, use weight/tallness squared for kilograms and weight/tallness squared x 703 for pounds and inches. This method is used for both adults and children.
If you are 20 or older, your BMI is based on standard weight groups that apply to all ages and sexes. For children and those under 20 age and sex have to be taken into consideration.
The normal weight guidelines for adults are:'. 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.
Keep in mind that BMI does not measure body fat directly. It is determined using a person's weight and that includes both muscle and fat. It is possible to have a high BMI number but not be fat. Many people with BMIs in the 30 area or higher have higher levels of body fat.
Keep in mind that weight is only one thing to consider when thinking about disease related risks.
Individuals who are obese or overweight have a significantly increased chance of developing issues or diseases caused by weight problems. Disease, death and weight are all part of the BMI range.
When trying to find the BMI for children use the same method as is done for adults. The standards that are used are the only difference. The age or sex of an individual affects the BMI. Body fat can change with age. Boys are different than girls when it comes to body fat.
After being calculated, the number is placed on the CDC BMI for age growth charts to discover the percentage. They are the most widely used gauge to determine the size and growth patterns of children in the United States. The percentile points to the relative position of the child's BMI number with others of the same age and sex. The growth charts show the weight status categories used with children and teens.
About the Author:
Learn more about your body mass index. Stop by HealthStatus.com where you can find an easy to use BMI calculator and many more interactive health tools.