Question

what is BMI or body mass index?

Answer 1

Hey There! ☺

BMI is the abbreviation for Body Mass Index which is also known as Quetelet Index.

It is the ratio of our weight (kg) to the square of our height (m).

As the definition states, it is very easy to be calculated.

Formula of BMI is :

$\frac{Weight (kg)}{Height ^{2}(m) }$

That is, we can calculate BMI by dividing our weight in kilograms with the square of our height in metres.

Example :

Consider an adult of height 1.6 m & weight 54 kg.

Then, BMI = 54 / (1.6 x 1.6) = 21 [approx.]

Purpose :

BMI is calculated to know about the nourishment of an adult.

Each BMI value indicate the nourishment status such as under weight, normal weight, over weight & obese.

♦ If BMI < 18.5, the person will be considered undernourished.

♦ If BMI > 25, the person will be considered overweight.

♦ If BMI > 40, the person will be considered obese.

♦ If BMI is between 18.5 & 24.9, the person has a healthy weight.

An infograph of Body Mass Index is attached for more info.

To get accurately your nourishment status with reference to your BMI value, BMI Charts are commonly available.

Remember : BMI is applicable for adults only & can't be used to calculate nourishment status of growing children.

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Hope my answer helped! ☺ Stay Healthy! ♥