Body Mass Index (BMI) is a widely used measurement to assess whether a person has a healthy weight for their height. It is calculated by dividing a person’s weight (in kilograms) by the square of their height (in meters). The result categorizes individuals into underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese ranges.

A Brief History of BMI

BMI was developed in the early 19th century by Belgian mathematician Adolphe Quetelet, who sought a simple way to analyze population health. It gained popularity in the 20th century as doctors and health organizations adopted it as a standard tool for assessing weight-related health risks.

Is BMI Always Accurate?

While BMI is a useful guideline, it doesn’t consider factors like muscle mass, bone density, or fat distribution. Athletes, for example, may have a high BMI due to muscle rather than excess fat. However, for most people, it remains a quick and effective way to gauge general health risks related to weight.

How to Use BMI for Health Goals

If your BMI falls outside the healthy range (18.5–24.9), it may be helpful to adjust your diet, exercise, or lifestyle. However, always consider additional factors like body composition and overall health before making changes.

Use a BMI calculator to quickly check your BMI and get insights into your weight category. Maintaining a healthy BMI can reduce the risk of conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

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