BMI, or body mass index, was produced to supply a more precise representation of whether an individual's weight could be considered healthy. Instead of taking a look at kilograms alone, it brings height into the mix, so that those of us on the taller or shorter side can evaluate our weight fairly. However what is BMI, and what can it inform us about our bodies?
Keep reading to find out what is thought about a healthy BMI, how it's measured, and how we can take actions to maintain it.
What is BMI?
BMI stands for body mass index, and is a method of checking whether you have a healthy weight in relation to your height. It's computed by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in metres squared.
For example:
If you weigh 57kg, and you are 1.62 m tall, the computation would be:
57 ÷ (1.62 x 1.62) = 21.7
Therefore, your BMI would be 21.7, which falls in the 'healthy weight' variety.
Is my BMI healthy?
So, what is a healthy BMI variety? 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
- In between 30 and 39.9-- Obese variety
Just as being overweight can have an impact on your health, consisting of an increased probability of having raised cholesterol levels, being underweight is better avoided too. Either way, it's finest to discuss your private circumstances with your physician 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 thought about a beneficial indicator of how healthy your weight is, it's not completely sure-fire. For example, a professional athlete or somebody who carries out strengthening exercises routinely may appear 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 calculation in order to get the full picture.
How do I maintain a healthy BMI?
Now you understand what is considered a healthy BMI, do not panic if your rating is beyond the preferable variety. There are great deals of small actions you can require to work towards a healthy BMI, including modifications to what you eat, how you work out, and your daily routines.
Have a healthy, balanced diet.
This indicates making certain your diet has the ideal mix of fruit, vegetables, starchy foods, and proteins, and only small amounts of high fat or high sugar foods. Have a look at our chart to see what a balanced diet looks like.
Manage part sizes.
Just put as much on your plate as you truly require to eat. It likewise assists to make certain that when you take a seat to eat a meal, you're able to pay it your complete attention, stopping when you're full.
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 hobby, like swimming or salsa? You might likewise discover a new way of getting to and from work, such as biking and walking-- the fresh air and light will also offer your spirits an increase.
Cut down on alcohol.
High in calories, low in dietary worth: it's finest to enjoy alcohol in moderation. Find out the suggested limit of alcohol usage per week here.
You can learn more about how to take care of your mind and body with the ideas on remaining fit and stressing less in our healthy lifestyle pages. Or sign up to our e-newsletter, and we'll deliver advice on exercise, eating well, and heart health straight to your inbox once a month.