According to the Weight-Control Information Network, 64.1 percent of American females have a BMI that places them into the overweight or obese categories. A healthy BMI can help you promote a better quality of life and reduce your health risks for cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders and more. Using your height and weight you can calculate your BMI, to see if you are in a healthy weight range.
Body Mass Index
The BMI is a general screening tool for both men and women to determine if you are in a healthy weight range. There is no separate category for women, the values remain the same. However, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention explains that at the same BMI women may have more body fat than men. The BMI uses a calculation with your height and weight to place you into one of four different categories. You will fall into an underweight, healthy weight, overweight or obese category depending on your calculation.
Calculate Your BMI
Finding your BMI is simple. Measure your height in inches and your weight in pounds. Multiply your weight by 703 and then divide that result by your height in inches, then divide it again by your height in inches. This number will be used to determine your category.
Ranges
A healthy weight range for women is between 18.5 and 24.9. You are considered under weight if your BMI is below 18.5. A BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered to be overweight, and having a BMI that is above 30 places you into the obese category, the CDC states.
Health Risks
A healthy BMI will help you achieve a healthier quality of life. Having an overweight or obese BMI places you at a greater risk for developing heart disease, stroke, diabetes and even sleep apnea. A BMI that falls in the underweight category can also lead to health risks like osteoporosis, weakened immune system and fatigue. Consider seeing your doctor to help you reach a healthy weight range.
Member Comments