The body mass index, or BMI, is a tool your doctor uses to determine if you are overweight or underweight, based on your height. Having a high BMI can lead to obesity and related diseases. On the other hand, having a low BMI may mean that you are malnourished and not getting enough nutrients. An optimal BMI, right in the middle, should be your ultimate goal.
The Calculation
You can calculate your BMI at home, as long as you know your height and weight. Divide your weight in pounds by your height in inches squared. Take that total and multiply it by 703. For example, if you are 5 feet 7 inches tall, or 67 inches, and weigh 150 lb., divide 150 by 67 squared, which equals .0334. Multiply this number by 703. Your BMI is 23.5.
BMI Ranges
Your BMI can put you into one of four categories: underweight, normal weight, overweight or obese. If your BMI falls below 18.5, you are considered underweight. A BMI above 25.0 puts you into the overweight category, while anything above 30.0 is considered obese. For optimal health, your BMI should be between 18.5 and 24.9. Having a BMI outside of these ranges, may mean you need to make some adjustments in your diet.
Health Risks
Having a BMI that puts you in the overweight or obese category, increases your risks of certain diseases. If your BMI is higher than 25.0, you may increase your chances of having hypertension, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and certain cancers, according to the CDC. One of the most common killers among women is heart disease. Reduce your risk by keeping your BMI in the normal range. Having a BMI lower than 18.5, may mean that you are not eating enough calories. A BMI in the underweight category may also mean that your body isn't absorbing nutrients properly. If your BMI falls outside of the optimal range, meet with a registered dietitian who can help you get your diet back on track.
BMI Limitations
While the BMI is a common way to determine your risk of malnutrition and obesity-related diseases, it does have several limitations. If you work out regularly and have a high amount of muscle mass, you will weigh more. This can put you in the overweight BMI range, but you are not actually overweight. The BMI calculation does not take body frame size into account. You may have a low BMI that puts you in the underweight category, but have a petite frame size. Your body weight may be ideal for your frame size. While the BMI is generally reliable for determining body fatness, women naturally have a higher amount of body fat than men. BMI does not use gender as a factor in the calculation.
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