The body mass index was created to help you determine if you are within a healthy weight range. It is important to understand what a healthy BMI is because controlling your body fat will help reduce your risk for many health problems. If your BMI falls in the overweight or obese ranges, you may want to consider making healthier lifestyle choices to promote weight loss.
Body Mass Index
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people. The BMI uses your height and weight to determine which weight category you may belong to. The BMI does not directly measure the amount of body fat you have; instead, it is an inexpensive alternative that all people can use.
Calculation
In order to determine if you have an ideal BMI, you have to know your weight in pounds and your height in inches. Multiply your weight in pounds by 703, then divide that result by your height in inches. Divide by your height in inches again to get your BMI.
Categories
Your BMI will place you in one of four categories based on your calculation, according to the MedLinePlus website. An ideal healthy BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9. If you are overweight, your BMI will fall between 25 and 29.9; if your BMI is above 30, you are considered to be obese. If your BMI is under 18.5, you are considered underweight.
Reaching an Ideal BMI
Reaching an ideal BMI can be done by making healthy lifestyle choices. If your BMI is higher than the healthy range, changing your dietary habits can help you reach a healthy weight. Eating whole grains, lean meats, fruits and vegetables in small servings will help the scale drop. Exercise can also promote weight loss; aim for exercising five days a week for 30 minutes. If you fall below the healthy range, add calories to your diet. Choose nutrient-dense foods that will fuel your body with vitamins, minerals and healthy calories.
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