BMI (Body Mass Index) is calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters. The formula is:
BMI = weight (kg) / (height (m) * height (m))
This calculation provides a numerical value that helps assess whether a person is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese based on established BMI categories.
Good BMI ranges can vary depending on factors like age, gender, and individual health conditions.
However, generally accepted BMI ranges for adults are as follows:
- Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
- Healthy weight: BMI between 18.5 and 24.9
- Overweight: BMI between 25 and 29.9
- Obesity: BMI of 30 or higher
It’s important to note that BMI has limitations, such as not accounting for variations in muscle mass or body composition.
Therefore, it’s just one of many tools used to assess health, and a healthcare professional should consider other factors when determining an individual’s overall health status.