BMI, or body mass index, was developed to provide a more precise representation of whether an individual's weight could be thought about healthy. Instead of taking a look at kgs alone, it brings height into the mix, so that those people on the taller or shorter side can examine our weight relatively. However what is BMI, and what can it inform us about our bodies?
Continue reading to find out what is thought about a healthy BMI, how it's determined, and how we can take steps to preserve it.
What is BMI?
BMI means body mass index, and is a method of examining whether you have a healthy weight in relation to your height. It's calculated by dividing your weight in kgs by your height in metres squared.
For instance:
If you weigh 57kg, and you are 1.62 m tall, the estimation would be:
57 ÷ (1.62 x 1.62) = 21.7
For that reason, your BMI would be 21.7, which falls in the 'healthy weight' variety.
Is my BMI healthy?
So, what is a healthy BMI range? Below are the BMI ranges for adults over 18, as outlined by the NHS.
- Below 18.5-- Underweight variety
- Between 18.5 and 24.9-- Healthy variety
- Between 25 and 29.9-- Overweight variety
- Between 30 and 39.9-- Obese range
Just as being overweight can have an impact on your health, consisting of an increased likelihood of having elevated cholesterol levels, being underweight is much better prevented too. In either case, it's finest to discuss your specific situations with your doctor and ask their recommendations on how you can reach a healthy BMI.
What other elements besides a healthy BMI do I need to think about?
Although BMI is still considered a helpful indicator of how healthy your weight is, it's not completely foolproof. For instance, a professional athlete or someone who carries out enhancing exercises regularly may seem to have a high BMI because of their increased muscle density.
Therefore, it's up to your GP or another healthcare professional to assess your lifestyle and diet as well as your BMI computation in order to get the complete image.
How do I maintain a healthy BMI?
Now you understand what is considered a healthy BMI, don't worry if your score is outside of the preferable variety. There are lots of small steps you can take to work towards a healthy BMI, including changes to what you consume, how you exercise, and your daily practices.
Have a healthy, balanced diet.
This suggests making sure your diet has the best mix of fruit, vegetables, starchy foods, and proteins, and just percentages of high fat or high sugar foods. Take a look at our chart to see what a well balanced diet appears like.
Manage part sizes.
Only put as much on your plate as you truly need to eat. It also helps to make certain that when you take a seat to consume a meal, you're able to pay it your full attention, stopping when you're complete.
Get active.
Activities that increase your heart rate and breathing (called aerobic workout) for 150 minutes a week are advised for maintaining a healthy weight. Why not begin a new pastime, like swimming or salsa? You could likewise find a new method of getting to and from work, such as cycling and walking-- the fresh air and light will likewise provide your spirits an increase.
Reduce alcohol.
High in calories, low in nutritional value: it's finest to take pleasure in alcohol in moderation. Discover the advised limitation of alcohol consumption per week here.
You can discover more about how to look after your body and mind with the suggestions on remaining fit and worrying less in our healthy way of life pages. Or sign up to our e-newsletter, and we'll deliver guidance on workout, consuming well, and heart health directly to your inbox once a month.