One way to determine if you are at a healthy weight is to calculate your body mass index. Your BMI is a calculation that compares your height to your weight to determine if your weight is within a healthy range. You should be aware of your BMI because being underweight, overweight or obese can increase your risk for certain chronic disease. Regularly calculate your BMI to monitor your weight.
BMI Calculation
Use a tape measure and a scale to determine your BMI along with a few simple calculations. Measure your height in inches with the tape measure. Then, step on the scale without any clothes on to determine your weight. Write down both numbers. Multiply your weight in pounds by 703. Divide that answer by your height in inches, then divide again by your height in inches. Write down your BMI. A BMI between 18.5 and 25 is considered to be within the healthy range.
Underweight
You are considered to be underweight if your BMI is less than 18.5. Those who are underweight are at risk for a weakened immune system, fragile bones and infertility. Furthermore, being underweight has been associated with serious psychological conditions, such as anorexia or bulimia. If you are underweight, you should schedule an appointment with your physician to discuss plans for gaining healthy weight.
Overweight
A BMI greater than 25 but less than 30 is considered to be overweight. Being overweight increases your risk for heart disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, certain cancers and many other chronic health conditions. Make the proper changes to your diet and exercise habits to lose weight properly. Note that muscular people with a higher lean body mass may fall into the overweight category because muscle weighs more than fat, according to the National Institutes of Health's Medline Plus.
Obese and Morbidly Obese
A BMI between 30 and 40 is considered to be obese, and a BMI greater than 40 is considered to be morbidly obese. Being obese further increases your risk for chronic disease. Obese and morbidly obese people should not hesitate to visit a physician to discuss methods of healthy weight loss. Your doctor may decide to check your hormone levels to determine if a hormone imbalance is contributing to excessive weight. Achieving a BMI within the healthy range will take some time. However, with regular decreases in caloric intake and a regular exercise program, reducing weight to a healthy level can be attained.
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