Body Mass Index and BMI Categories
BMI which stands for body mass index or Quetelet index is a statistical measure which compares a person’s weight and height. Body mass index is used to estimate a healthy body weight based on a person’s height.
Because of the ease of measurement and calculation BMI is the most popular diagnostic tool used to identify weight problems. BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.
BMI Categories
BMI values are used to put healthy individuals into the following categories: severely underweight, underweight, normal or ideal weight, overweight, obese, morbidly obese.
Severely underweight (BMI less than 16.5):
Quite obviously this is a serious situation and people in this condition should seek medical attention as a matter of urgency.
Underweight (BMI from 16.5 to 18.4):
With a BMI below 18 the body is fighting a battle to maintain itself. Indeed, misuse of diet pills may be part of the problem. Medical attention should be sought as a priority.
Normal or ideal weight (BMI from 18.5 to 24.9):
A body mass index of 18 to 25 is a desirable range for the average middle-aged adult. Weight control in this range can be achieved with a sensible balance eating plan and exercise.
Overweight (BMI from 25 to 30):
A BMI of 25 to 30 indicates a weight condition that carries increased risk of weight related problems such as high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, heart disease and diabetes. People in this range should adopt a weight loss program including a low fat diet and regular exercise.
Obese (BMI from 30.1 to 34.9):
A BMI of 30 or more indicates a weight problem that needs to be addressed. Risks in the range include heart disease, diabetes and other weight related conditions. People in this range need to lose weight to avoid further problems.
Morbidly obese (BMI 40 and above):
A BMI of 40 or greater indicates a serious weight condition. People in this range are at risk of dying early or contracting serious weight related complications. Immediate action should be taken to minimize these risks with a concerted weight control and weight loss program.