Body Mass Index (BMI)

What is the best way to determine if you are overweight? Body Mass Index is a reliable way to determine if you are overweight. Body Mass Index or BMI is simply an indicator as opposed to a direct measurement of total body fat. It can provide a rough guideline as to where a person stands in terms of being overweight.If a person is a body builder this is not a good tool to measure body fat. However if you are not a body builder you probably need to pay attention to this indicator. As a person’s BMI index increases, so does their risk of major health problems or even death.

You can easily determine your BMI this way:

Current Weight X 703/Height (in Inches)Squared. This means that if you weigh 185lbs and are 6 feet tall, your BMI would be calculated as (185×703 /72×72 = 25.09) (Calculate your BMI Here: www.findmybmi.com )

People with BMI between 25 and 30 are considered overweight and have increased chances of health problems. Within this range, if the waist size is greater than 40inches for men, and 35 inches for women, the risk increases significantly.

BMI’s above 30 indicate obesity and the chances of major health problems become very high.

Generally people who are overweight or obese have a greater chance of developing high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol or other lipid disorders, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers. They are also at an increased risk for premature death, cardiovascular disease, gallbladder disease, sleep apnea, and osteoarthritis.

The risks associated with being overweight are something you should not ignore. It is more than just looking good at the holiday party or looking good in the bikini or bathing suit – It is about your life and health!

You should see your doctor immediately and start a diet and exercise program. Any diet that you start should involve eating healthy real foods and a moderate exercise program. Don’t wait – start today.