How to calculate your BMI to see if you are underweight, overweight, or healthy? Check the health risks of low and high BMI

A healthy body is something everyone desires, and maintaining it requires keeping body weight in proportion to height. To assess whether the weight is within a healthy range, the Body Mass Index (BMI) serves as an important guide. BMI is a tool to estimate the amount of body fat by using your height and weight measurements.

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It can help assess risk factors for certain health conditions. It is pertinent to mention that the BMI is not always a precise representation of the fatness of the body.

Why is BMI used?

The BMI helps in diagnosing weight types and work as a screening tool for certain health conditions.

How to calculate BMI?

BMI can be calculated with these steps:

• Multiply your weight in pounds by 703.
• Divide that answer by your height in inches (there are 12 inches in 1 foot).
• Divide that answer by your height in inches again

BMI range and weight types

The following BMI ranges (in kg/m2) classify different weight types:

Underweight: Less than 18.5
Optimum range: 18.5 to 24.9
Overweight: 25 to 29.9
Class I obesity: 30 to 34.9
Class II obesity: 35 to 39.9
Class III obesity: More than 40

The optimum range for a healthy BMI is considered to be 18.5 to 24.9..

How to assess health risks with BMI

If the BMI is less than 18.5, a person is considered underweight. In such a case, the person may be at a higher risk for developing several conditions like Malnutrition, Anemia, Weakened immune system, infertility, according to Cleveland Clinic.

On the other hand, having a higher BMI also carries multiple risks including heart disease, high blood pressure (hypertension), Type 2 diabetes, Gallstones, Osteoarthritis, Sleep apnea. It can also cause certain cancers, including colon, breast, endometrial and gallbladder. Depression and other mental health conditions can also follow.

In case of lower or higher BMI, the person should consult their healthcare provider before taking any further step or reaching a conclusion.

Disclaimer: The article is for general information or educational purposes only, and is not a medical advice. Please consult your doctor as this is not a substitute for professional help.