Body Mass Index (BMI)

Body mass index (BMI) is a measurement used to identify the weight class of an individual. You cannot determine if you're in the healthy weight category based solely on your weight as you weight may be dependent on various factors, such as your height. A tall and thin person can weigh considerably more than a short and chubby person. Nonetheless, individuals who are tall and thin may have better health if their weight is appropriate for their height.

Even when men and women have the same height, the optimal weight for them can be different. To determine if you're within the healthy weight range, BMI tells if your weight is acceptable for your stature by comparing your weight to height. BMI is an effective tool for determining risk factors for diseases, particularly for conditions linked to obesity. A body mass index evaluation is necessary because excess body fat increases the probability of developing cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes, whereas low body fat leads to malnutrition.

To calculate effective medication doses, many healthcare providers use BMI. Normally, those with higher BMIs require higher doses. To maintain your general health, it is necessary to be knowledgeable of your BMI. A healthy body fat proportion aids in the absorption of vitamins and minerals. It also serves as your body's source of energy, helps in controlling body temperature, and protects your organs.