What to Know About Body Mass Index
| 2 min read
In 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that 41.9% of the adult population is at risk of obesity. Obesity is one of the leading risk factors for premature death and can lead to diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and stroke.
Below are tips to understanding the importance of getting to and maintaining a healthy weight:
1. Know your body mass index, or BMI. This is the first step toward a healthy weight understanding. BMI is a value based on your height and weight. It can indicate high body fatness, and screens for potential health issues. BMI doesn’t account for body composition, ethnicity, race, gender and age. BMI can be a useful tool for some people; it’s one part of the equation leading to a healthy weight and lifestyle.
- Below 18.5 is an underweight range.
- 18.5–24.9 is a healthy range for most adults.
- 25–29.9 is an overweight range.
- 30 or above is considered obese.
2. Consult with an expert. This can include your doctor, a personal trainer or a registered dietician to help you determine appropriate lifestyle changes, safe and effective workouts and establish healthy eating patterns. Your doctor can help you understand your BMI and work with you on developing a plan.
3. Find support groups or participate weekly with our Drop 5 Virtual Weight-Loss Community. Consistency is an important factor when it comes to maintaining a healthy weight. Having a support group to rely on can help you stay accountable as you work toward your weight-loss goals. How to determine your BMI:
- Multiply your weight in pounds by 703.
- Divide that answer by your height in inches (there are 12 inches in a foot).
- Divide that answer by your height in inches again.
- Example: Jane weighs 150 pounds and is 5-foot-3, or 63 inches.
- 150 pounds x 703 = 105,450
- 105,450 ÷ 63 inches = 1,674
- 1,674 ÷ 63 inches = 26.57
- Jane’s BMI is in the overweight range BMI doesn’t distinguish between body fat and lean muscle mass. Athletes who have higher levels of muscle mass may be better served by obtaining a body composition analysis.
Learn more about body mass index in this Blue Cross Virtual Well-Being℠ webinar, National Healthy Weight Week Promotion. You can also sign up for future employer- or individual-focused webinars and guided meditations here.
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