Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on your weight that applies the same standards to everyone. It doesn’t take into account the type of fat you have, but rather how much of your body is composed of fat. Your BMI will give you an idea if you are at risk for health problems related to being overweight or obese. However, it should not be used as a diagnostic tool. You may also see this as a chart with a range from underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obese. Keep in mind that these values will change if you’re younger or older than that.

What is BMI?

BMI stands for Body Mass Index. It is a measurement of body fat that uses your height and weight to calculate your body fat percentage. You can calculate your BMI by dividing your weight in pounds by your height in inches squared. You can also use a BMI calculator online. This will tell you if you are underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. BMI does not account for muscle mass, or how fit you are. People can have different BMIs but have the same amount of body fat. BMI is used as a screening tool to identify possible health issues related to being overweight or obese. However, it should not be used as a diagnostic tool.

Calculating Your BMI

An easy way to determine your BMI is to find your weight in pounds in the left column, and your height in inches in the top row, and then draw a line down to the bottom BMI column. Then, you can read your BMI from the chart. For example, if you are 6 feet tall and weigh 160 pounds, then you would follow the column for 160 pounds and the row for 72 inches (6 feet), and then draw a line down to the BMI column. Your BMI is 25.3, which is considered overweight.

BMI and Weight Gain

BMI is an indicator of health risk. It doesn’t tell you what causes high BMI, but it does tell you that being overweight or having obesity is a risk factor for certain diseases and conditions. In order to reduce your risk, you need to address your weight. One way to reduce your BMI is to create a calorie deficit. In other words, you need to consume fewer calories than you burn in a day. This will help you lose weight, but it isn’t the only way to reduce your BMI. Exercising more, especially weight-bearing exercises like running, weightlifting, and strength training, will also help you lose weight and reduce your BMI.

BMI and Fitness

If you have a high BMI, you may worry about your health. However, having a high BMI doesn’t necessarily mean you are unhealthy. Having a high BMI can be caused by muscle mass, too. Muscle weighs more than fat, so if you are very fit, you could have a high BMI and be healthy at the same time. If you have a high BMI and are worried about your health, talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you determine if you are at risk for certain diseases and conditions. Start an exercise routine, and monitor your progress with a fitness tracker. You can also talk to a dietitian or nutritionist who can help you create a balanced diet that meets your fitness goals.

BMI and Health Risks

If you have a high BMI, you may be at risk for health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and certain types of cancers. The risk of these diseases increases as your BMI increases. If you are overweight or obese, a healthy diet and exercise can help lower your BMI and reduce your risk for these diseases. If you have a very high BMI, your doctor can help you develop a safe and effective diet and exercise plan. If you’re at risk for these diseases, or if you already have them, diet and exercise may not be enough to lower your BMI and reduce your risk. Your doctor may suggest medication or other treatments to help manage your health conditions.

The Bottom Line

Your BMI is a measurement of your weight in relation to your height. It is used to determine if you are at risk for health problems related to being overweight or obese. However, BMI is not diagnostic and cannot determine if you have a specific health problem. The only way to know for sure is to see your doctor. If you are worried about your BMI, start an exercise routine and eat a healthy diet to reduce your BMI.