What is BMI?
Well there is no really delicate way to put this so
we'll just say BMI is a measure of how much body fat you are carrying
around with you. It is a really useful number from a health perspective so
its worth getting a reading.
There is a calculator in the on the registered users login page but you
need to
Register get there.
Interpretation
Here is a brief summary of how to interpret what
your BMI means:
Less Than 20
This indicates you have a low amount of body fat. In an
athlete, this can be desirable but if not, you may have overdone the
dieting a bit. A BMI this low can result in a lowering your body's
defensive system and so put you at risk of all sorts of ailments. Consider
gaining a little weight through good diet and use exercise to increase
your muscle mass.
Between 20 - 22
This indicates the ideal, healthy amount of body fat and is associated
with living longest, and having the lowest incidence of serious illness.
It also seems to be the ratio where the body shape is perceived by many to
be the most aesthetically pleasing.
Between 22 - 25
This is considered to be in the acceptable range, and is generally
associated with a good healthy lifestyle, sensible diet and regular
exercise.
Between 25 - 30
You are over weight and should start to correct the problem now. Finds
ways to lower your weight, through diet and exercise. You are at increased
risk of suffering from a variety of potentially serious illnesses at your
present weight.
Between 30 - 40
You have a serious problem, since at this level you are classed as
morbidly obese. There is a greatly increased risk that your body will
start to malfunction (Diabetes, Heart disease, circulatory problems, gall
bladder trouble and even some cancers are all a possibility). You really
need to do something about shedding a few pounds and upping the exercise.
Start now and don't give up.
Over 40
At this level, you are classed as extremely obese. You may already be
seeing signs of failure in your body's systems and because every thing has
become so much more difficult, you probably tend to take even less
exercise which will tend to make the situation worse. Do something about
it now and improve your chances of longevity. We would recommend you get a
thorough health check and some professional advice - Act now before its
too late.