Calculating Your Body Mass Index
Body mass index (BMI) can be used to measure both overweight and obesity in adults. It is the measurement of choice for many obesity researchers and health professionals. BMI uses a calculation based on height and weight, and is not gender-specific. Although BMI doesn't directly measure body fat, it provides a more accurate measure of obesity than relying on weight alone.
You can calculate your BMI by multiplying your weight in pounds by 704.5, then dividing the result by your height in inches, and dividing that result by your height in inches again.
A BMI of 18.5 to 25 is normal, 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight, and 30 plus is considered obese.
If your BMI is over 25, you should seriously consider losing weight.
According to the National Institute on Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, obesity and being overweight are known risk factors of:
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Diabetes
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Heart Disease
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Stroke
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Hypertension
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Gallbladder Disease
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Osteoarthritis
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Sleep apnea and other breathing problems
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Certain cancers (uterine, breast, colorectal, kidney, and gallbladder)
In addition, obesity is associated with:
