Body Mass Index (BMI) is measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to both adult men and women. BMI does not differentiate between body fat and muscle mass. Therefore, body builders and people who have a lot of muscle bulk will have a high BMI but are not overweight or obese.
BMI is usually a good indicator of body fat for most people. Although it doesn’t directly measure body fat, it closely correlates to direct measures of body fat, such as underwater weighing. BMI is also an inexpensive and easy-to-perform method that can help determine if a person’s current weight could potentially lead to health problems.
It’s important to note that BMI is not a diagnostic tool. Whether a person has a high BMI or low BMI, an individual’s personal measurement should be left to a reputable doctor to determine if excess weight is a health risk. Further assessments may need to be completed including:
Family History
Evaluations of Diet and Physical Activity
Skinfold Thickness Measurements
BMI Calculator
If you want to compare your weight status to others, BMI is a great method of analysis.
BMI
Term
Class of Obesity
<19
Underweight
19-25
Ideal BMI
25-30
Overweight
>30
Obese
I
>35
Severely Obese
II
>40
Morbidly Obese
III
>50
Super Obese
IV
Obese - Speak to a physician about the best weight-loss options, including nutrition counseling and exercise programs for your lifestyle.
Severely Obese - If you have other health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure or sleep apnea, you may qualify for bariatric surgery. Speak to your doctor or a bariatric surgeon about your weight-loss options.
Morbidly Obese - People who are classified as morbidly obese have a high likelihood of life-threatening diseases and even death. Talk to your doctor about whether bariatric surgery may be right for you.
Super Obese - These people are at the highest risk of death due to their weight and complications from their excessive weight. Bariatric surgery may be necessary and should be discussed with your doctor.
