BMI Explained
In adults the easiest measure of fatness is to measure weight (W/kg) and height (H, m) and calculate W/H2.
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, overweight and obesity in adults.
According to the WHO definition the normal (or recommended) BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9,
a BMI between 25 and 29.9 defined as overweight and a BMI of 30 or more is considered to be obese.
It’s important that the BMI measurements do not stand-alone and it should be kept in mind that
BMI may represent different levels of fatness and body fat distribution depending on age, sex and ethnicity or race.
E.g. a tall muscular person can have a higher BMI without actually being overweight.
An example: weight = 80 kg. Height = 1.69 metre. BMI = (80 kg/ (1.69 m x 1.69 m)) = BMI on 28
Is Your Shape Apple Or Pear?
If you have put to much weight on, its important how the weight is placed on you body.
If the extra weight is around you stomach (apple shape) there will be a bigger risk than if the extra kilo is around the hips.
As suggested by the National Institute of Health and WHO you have:
- A low risk if your waist circumference (cm) is 79 for women and 93 for men
- An increased risk if it’s between 80-87 for women and 94-101 for men
- And a high risk if the waist circumference is 88+ (women) and 102+ (men)