Body mass index (BMI) is used to determine weight categories by comparing weight and height. Learn how to calculate your BMI, how to classify your weight by BMI, and the advantages and disadvantages of this method.
Body mass index number or body mass index (BMI) was used to indicate the weight category. Through BMI, you can find out whether your weight status is in the normal, excess, or underweight category.
How to Calculate Body Mass Index
The calculation of the body mass index can be done with an ideal body weight calculator, namely by dividing body weight in kilograms and height in meters squared. Here is the formula:
Body mass index (BMI) = body weight (kg) : height (m)²
For some people, the body mass index value may not be accurate, for example a pregnant woman or a bodybuilding athlete. That is, even though their BMI values are above normal, it does not mean they have excess fat.
Classification of Weight Based on Body Mass Index
According to WHO, the calculation of BMI is divided into four categories, namely:
- Obesity = BMI equal to or above 30
- Excess body weight = BMI between 25–29.9
- Normal weight = BMI between 18.5–24.9.
- Below normal weight = BMI below 18.5
As for the Asian population, including Indonesia, the grouping of BMI is as follows:
- Obesity = BMI greater than or equal to 25
- Excess body weight = BMI between 23-24.9
- Normal weight = BMI between 18.5-22.9
- Below normal weight = BMI below 18.5
Unfortunately, the figures above are less accurate when applied to people with eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa. Body mass index figures also do not represent those who are obese at extreme levels.
Don't Rely Too Much on Body Mass Index
BMI can indeed be used as a benchmark so that someone is more aware of their weight. However, relying too much on these numbers is also not good.
The following are reasons why you should not rely on body mass index:
- Does not consider other factors, such as age, gender, genetics, lifestyle, and medical history
- Assuming all weights are the same, thus ruling out the possibility of someone having a higher muscle mass than others, for example athletes
- Does not consider the distribution of fat in the human body. In fact, the location of fat in the body can identify whether a person is healthy or not
- Leads to weight bias and often ignores more serious medical problems
- Body mass index values are not the same for the entire human population in the world
However, body mass index can still be considered to prevent the risk of disease. If you have a BMI above normal, you are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
Meanwhile, if your BMI is below normal, you are at risk for digestive disorders and osteoporosis.
The Importance of Maintaining Weight
Despite all the drawbacks, the calculation of body mass index can be a reminder for you to maintain weight. By having a normal weight, there are several benefits that you can get, including:
- Can do more activities because of higher stamina
- Blood circulation in the body is more efficient and smooth
- It is easier for the body to manage fluids
- Improved sleep patterns and quality
- Heart work will be lighter
- Decreased risk of heart disease, diabetes, gallstone disease, respiratory problems, and cancer
Given the many advantages of having an ideal body weight, knowledge about body mass index is still worth maintaining.
Also make sure you have a healthy diet and exercise regularly. If you have weight problems and have difficulty managing or achieving your ideal weight, you can consult a doctor for advice and appropriate treatment.