Body Mass Index (BMI)

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a ratio between weight and height. A better predictor of disease risk than body weight-for-height ratio, BMI is often used to assess adults’ health. Higher BMI numbers are linked with higher blood fats and blood pressure and greater risk of developing certain diseases, including infertility, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and certain cancers. Lower BMI numbers (less than 18.5) also are linked to a greater risk for health problems. (To calculate your BMI, click on http://nhlbisupport.com/bmi/. )

How does your BMI rank? Here’s the lowdown from the National Institutes of Health:

• You’re considered underweight if your BMI is less than 18.5. You should see your physician to assess your BMI and general health.

• You’re in the healthy range if your BMI falls between 18.5 and 24.9. You don’t need to lose weight, but you should try to stay within this range.

• You’re considered overweight if your BMI is between 25 and 29.9. You should consult with your doctor to see if your disease history or lifestyle coupled with your weight could raise your disease risk. If so, you will probably have to lose weight.

• You’re considered obese if your BMI is 30 or higher. To improve your health, see your doctor about developing a life-long weight management plan.

• A high BMI does not necessarily mean you have added health risks. Since muscle weighs more than fat, many physically fit people including the world’s top athletes, have high BMIs.

The width of your waist also can increase your risk for weight-related diseases. For example, men with a BMI of 25 or greater whose waist measures 40 inches or more have higher risks. For women with a BMI of 25 or more, a waist circumference of 35 or more is associated with higher risks.