Diet Trials : Paul McKenna

Body mass index (BMI)

I know that most people have a distorted idea of what is an ideal weight, not surprising when you consider that we are surrounded by images of glamorous looking people on the fronts of glossy magazines, most of whom are in fact underweight! The medical fraternity however, use a more accurate method BMI.

BMI uses a mathematical formula that takes into accounts both a person’s height and weight. BMI equals a person’s weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. (BMI=kg/m²). For ease we have already done the calculations for you and have converted this into a more familiar imperial weight and measure. To use the table, find the appropriate height in the left-hand column. Move across the row to the given weight. The number at the top of the column is the BMI for that height and weight.

Ideally a person should fall into the 18.5 to 25 category, but it must be emphasised that this will vary, for instance an athlete will have a greater BMI.

Remember that weight is also related to build, and you should make allowances if you are stocky or of heavy build. Your BMI will vary slightly according to gender.

For the sake of your health, if you fall into the overweight, obese or extremely obese category, you should consult your health professional. However, increasingly people are turning to online professional medical advisors for advice on weight loss, diet plans, and weight loss medication. Your health will be at risk if you do not reduce your weight to the recommended level.