what is BMI

Hi Cisco,

BMI is an acronym for body mass index and is a tool used to determine body fat.  Even though BMI doesn't measure body fat directly, studies have shown that BMI is an accurate indicator of what direct measures would be, such as underwater weighing.  To calculate your BMI, all you need to know is your height and weight.

Here is a formula to calculate your BMI:

[Weight (lbs.) ÷ Height (inches) ÷ Height (inches)] X 703 = BMI

For example:  Weight 140 lbs., Height 64 inches (5'4")

(140 ÷ 64 ÷ 64) X 703 = 24.03

Now, you can take your BMI and see where you fall.

< 18.5 - Underweight

18.5 - 24.9 - Normal

25.0 - 29.9 - Overweight

≥ 30.0 - Obese

So, if you use the example above, a BMI of 24.03 falls just within Normal.

All the best,

Lisa Nelson, RD, LN

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