Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in meters. A BMI of 25 or more is considered overweight, while a BMI of 30 or more is considered obese.
Here is the formula for calculating BMI:
BMI = weight (kg) / height (m)^2
For example, if you weigh 70 kilograms and are 1.7 meters tall, your BMI would be 24.22.
You can also use an online BMI calculator to calculate your BMI. There are many free BMI calculators available online.
Once you have calculated your BMI, you can use the following table to determine your weight category:
| BMI | Weight Category |
|---|---|
| Underweight | <18.5 |
| Normal weight | 18.5 to 24.9 |
| Overweight | 25 to 29.9 |
| Obese | 30 or more |
It is important to note that BMI is just a general measure of body fat. It does not take into account factors such as muscle mass, body fat distribution, or overall health. Therefore, it is important to talk to your doctor about your weight and health.
Here are some tips for calculating your BMI accurately:
- Use a reliable BMI calculator.
- Make sure you have your height and weight in metric units.
- Enter your height and weight accurately.
- If you are pregnant, do not use a BMI calculator.
BMI is a useful tool for assessing your weight and health. However, it is important to remember that it is just one measure of body fat. Talk to your doctor about your weight and health to get the most accurate assessment.
In addition to BMI, there are other factors that can affect your health, such as your body fat percentage, waist-to-hip ratio, and waist circumference. These factors are more accurate measures of body fat than BMI, but they are not as widely used.
If you are concerned about your weight or health, talk to your doctor. They can help you assess your risk factors and develop a plan to improve your health.
