BODY MASS INDEX - BMI - WEIGHT LOSS - OBESITY

The Body Mass Index was designed as a method of measuring body fat compared to height. The formula is mathematical, and is as follows:

BMI = height (cm)/weight (kg) squared

There are many websites that can calculate your BMI easily and quickly, such as AmazingWeightLoss.com. Using a free BMI calculator can help you quickly assess your body fat situation and give you indicators to what kind of weight loss you require.

The BMI is not the only method of body fat calculation, yet it is the most widely used and most effective. The only scenario where the BMI does not work effectively is regarding people with plenty of lean muscle mass, such as body builders and professional athletes. Their weights are high due to muscle weighing more than fat tissue. Therefore, for their weight, they will be "overweight", but they will not be "over-fat".

BACK: Defining Obesity - PAGE 3 of 6 - NEXT: Obesity Factors

 

Change One

Dean Ornish