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Tools
Body Mass Index Calculator
Body Mass Index Calculator
If you want a rough idea of your 'ideal' weight then the Body Mass
Index (BMI) is the best indicator. It tries to identify the percentage
of body tissue that is actually fat. It does have disadvantages
in that it cannot allow for variations in fat, bone, organs and
muscle, but it provides a broader range for what is considered to
be normal.
Calculate your BMI:
Just enter your height and your weight, and this tool can use a
formula created by the Panel on Energy, Obesity, and Body Weight
Standards to figure out your Body Mass Index. This index classifies
you into one of several categories, from underweight to desirable
to obese.
BMI < than 20 may contribute to health problems in some people.
Some of the health risks you face by being underweight are: heart
irregularities, depression and other emotional distress, and anemia.
BMI 20 - 25 this is a god range for most people. If you fall
within this zone and eat a balanced diet, your weight should not
cause any health problems.
BMI 25 - 27 This is a caution zone, watch your weight. While
still within an acceptable range, a BMI of 25 -27 could lead to
health problems for some people.
BMI > than 27 the higher your BMI goes above 27, the more
you risk developing these health problems: high blood pressure,
diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and obesity.
* the BMI is designed for adults aged 20 to 65 years. It does not
apply to babies, children, adolescents, pregnant or nursing women,
senior citizens, very muscular people and endurance athletes such
as runners.
More Information
The BMI as a measurement of health has significant limitations.
For instance, it does not take into account genetic history or habits
such as smoking and drinking. However, it is useful in connection
with several other measurements to determine your risk for certain
diseases including diabetes and heart disease. It is important to
consult with a doctor before basing any nutritional decisions on
the results of this calculator.
What is the BMI?
The BMI (Body Mass Index) was developed by a Belgium statistician
by the name of Adolphe Quelet in the mid-19th-century. It is an
internationally recognized measurement of weight status, though
the table which relates the numeric value to the actual weight status
varies in several countries. We use the categories established by
the US Department of Health and Human Services.
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