GB
BODY MASS INDEX
What is Body Mass Index (BMI)?
Body mass index (BMI) is a widely used international standard that measures weight to height ratio to determine obesity. BMI is expressed by the following terms:
BMI =
Body weight (kg)
[Body height (m)]2
The BMI is only a general indicator of your health level. As such, accuracies may vary depending on your body type and composition. Consult your physician to find out more about your current health.
NOTE To convert pounds or stone pounds to kilograms, and inches to meters, refer to the conversion reference on page 13.
How to Interpret BMI
Use the resulting BMI value with the chart below to determine your current level of health: NOTE Asians have a separate BMI range due to their different body composition.
Health Indication | BMI Range | Description |
Underweight | Less than 20.0* | Your body weight is currently lower than |
| average. Work toward healthy, regular food | |
|
| |
| * Asian BMI: | intake and exercise routine to build up your |
| Less than 18.5 | health to recommended levels. |
Recommended | 20.0 – 25.0* | Your health is at the recommended level. |
| Maintain a balanced diet and exercise to | |
|
| |
| * Asian BMI: | keep your current level of health. |
| 18.5 – 23.0 |
|
Overweight | 25.1 – 29.9* | Your body weight may be above normal. |
| Increase your exercise and work out a diet | |
|
| |
| * Asian BMI: | plan to lower your risk for serious illness. |
| 23.0 – 29.9 |
|
Obese | 30.0 or greater* | At this level, you may be at risk for heart |
| disease, high blood pressure, and other | |
|
| |
| * Asian BMI: | illnesses. Consult with your doctor to develop |
| 30.0 or greater | a proper health and fitness plan. |
NOTE BMI should not be used as a guideline for health risks for the following groups:
Group | Reason |
Children and | BMI ranges are only based on adult heights. |
teenagers |
|
Athletes and | BMI does not differentiate between fat and muscle, thus making it |
bodybuilders | inaccurate for persons with high muscle volumes. |
Pregnant or | This group generates naturally high fat reserves as part of the |
nursing women | pregnancy. |
People over the | Fat reserves naturally tend to be higher with older persons. |
age of 65 |
|
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