Gender
The development and body fat composition of girls and boys vary with age. Consequently, a child's age and gender are considered when evaluating their BMI.
What your BMI result means
A BMI range of 18.5 to 24.9 is considered a 'healthy weight.' Maintaining a healthy weight may lower your chances of experiencing health issues later on, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. Aim for a nutritious diet with reduced fat and sugar content, incorporating ample fruits and vegetables. Additionally, strive for regular physical activity, ideally about 30 minutes daily for five days a week.
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Healthy eating
Healthy eating promotes weight control, disease prevention, better digestion, immunity, mental clarity, and mood.
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Regular exercise
Exercise improves fitness, aids weight control, elevates mood, and reduces disease risk, fostering wellness and longevity.
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Adequate sleep
Sleep enhances mental clarity, emotional stability, and physical wellness, promoting overall restoration and rejuvenation.
Limitations of BMI
Although BMI is often a practical indicator of healthy weight, it is not suited for every person. Specific groups should carefully consider their BMI outcomes, and in certain cases, the measurement may not be beneficial to use.
Age
In aging individuals, increased body fat and muscle loss may cause BMI to underestimate body fat content.
Muscle
BMI may misclassify muscular individuals as overweight or obese, as it doesn't differentiate muscle from fat.
Pregnancy
Expectant mothers experience weight gain due to their growing baby. Maintaining a healthy pre-pregnancy BMI is advisable to minimise health risks for both mother and child.
Race
Certain health concerns may affect individuals of some Black and Asian origins at lower BMIs than others. To learn more, it is advised to discuss this with your GP or practice nurse.