Let’s talk about BMI today. What is BMI? Body Mass Index, BMI for short, is a measure of how your body is proportionate to your height. It is calculated by dividing the body mass in kilograms by the square of the body height in meters squared. A body mass index calculator can be accessed on the internet for anyone to calculate his BMI.
The BMI value is used to estimate how far an individual adult body weight departs from what is normal compared with a person’s height. From the value of the BMI, we can tell whether a person is underweight, normal weight, overweight or obese. Knowing one’s BMI is a good guide to health maintenance too.
In underdeveloped and poor countries, a low BMI of less than 18.5, is prevalent which may indicate malnutrition or other health problems. In other countries, a high BMI of more than 25 may indicate a society of overnourished individuals who are either overweight or obese. In developed countries, low BMI may indicate eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.
The following table indicates how in general, how health risk can be anticipated with the value of BMI
| Health Risk | BMI (kg/m2) |
| Risk of developing osteoporosis and nutritional deficiency syndrome. | Under 18.5 |
| Low Risk (Healthy Range). | 18.5 to 25 |
| Moderate risk of developing heart disease, hypertension, stroke, and diabetes. | 25 to 30 |
| High risk of developing heart disease, hypertension, stroke, and diabetes. | Over 30 |
Overweight and obese individuals are associated with a 51% increase in mortality compared to normal weight persons due to a greater risk for the following diseases:
- Coronary artery disease
- Dyslipidemia (high cholesterol)
- Type 2 diabetes
- Hypertension
- Osteoporosis
- Stroke
- Sleep apnea
- Cancer
- Gallbladder disease.
The next question that arises is, ‘How do we get an ideal BMI?’
We must take control of the situation to take control of our life.
Before taking any drastic action, if your BMI is relatively high, it is advisable to get a thorough medical examination. From the results of the medical checkup and with a qualified physician’s advice and monitoring, one would be more confident in achieving success. You never know your heart or kidneys are already compromised and you cannot suddenly embark on a rough exercise protocol. If you are still medically fit, then you can make plans to change your lifestyle habits. Change your diet to eating healthy and go on morning walks, cycle or join a taichi group. Getting enough rest (sleep) is also important.
If you are already diagnosed with any hypertension or diabetes, it is good to have a daily record of what you eat against readings from a glucometer and a blood pressure monitor. Investing in monitoring your health is a great investment for good health management.
Below are 3 links for you to explore how to improve your health or the health of loved ones with diabetes and hypertension. Simple exercises and change of diet will improve, if not reverse your diabetes and/or hypertension. Feel free to click the links below: