People come in a variety of sizes and shapes. While it’s important to respect our diversity, everyone should prioritize their health. Your body fat percentage is one of the most important indicators of your health. Getting an accurate assessment of how much body fat you have is the first step in managing your body fat. The best way to determine this is to use a BMI calculator, which calculates your body fat percentage based on your height and weight.
Your BMI is computed for adults by multiplying your weight by the square of your height. Your BMI helps identify if you are at risk of certain diseases by taking into account both your height and weight.
What is a good BMI?
Your adult BMI is a range of body fat percentages determined by your age and height. People with a BMI of 18.5 to 25 are considered to be in the healthy percentile. Those with a BMI of less than 18.5 are classified as underweight, while those with a BMI of 25 to 30 are classified as overweight. Obese people have a BMI of 30 or higher and are at a higher risk of disease.
While most people’s BMI measurements are standard, there are some outliers to the rule. Despite their high level of fitness, athletes and those with a higher amount of muscle mass may have a BMI calculation that classifies them as overweight or obese. Athletes should consult their doctor to ensure that they are keeping a good body fat balance.
What are the health risks of having a high BMI?
The stakes are enormous when it comes to the amount of body fat you carry. Obesity and high amounts of body fat have a slew of negative health implications that can negatively impact your overall health and quality of life. They are as follows:
- Blood pressure that is too high
- Cholesterol levels are high
- Diabetes
- Coronary artery disease
- Stroke
- Gallbladder disease
- Osteoarthritis
- Sleep deprivation
- Inflammation and discomfort that persists
- Anxiety and depression
Importance of using BMI Calculator
Your doctor will usually measure your height and weight during your annual physical. They will calculate your BMI based on this information. You can self-monitor your BMI between doctor appointments by weighing yourself and utilizing a BMI calculator to get up-to-date data.
BMI Calculation for Children and Adolescents
BMIs for children and teenagers are calculated using the same formula as for adults, but with age and gender are taken into account. This is due to fluctuations in BMIs that occur throughout a child’s development and can tilt the scales. Discuss your child’s BMI as it changes and what to expect as they get older with their pediatrician.
Wrapping Up
It’s time to consult a specialist if your BMI isn’t in the healthy percentile. Consult your primary care physician for tips on how to establish a healthy body fat balance. To attain your health goals, you may need to consult a dietitian and as well as apply for a health insurance plan through Finserv MARKETS!