Body Mass Index

With all this talk out there about shedding pounds, it might be surprising to find out that weight isn't the only number to consider. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, calculating body mass index (BMI) is one of three steps in determining an ideal weight. Because it's a measure of weight relative to height, BMI is a reliable indicator of body fat for both men and women more than 20 years old; however, it may not be entirely accurate for athletes or those who have lost muscle mass, for instance, older people.
 

To use the BMI Calculator:

Enter your weight (in pounds) and your height (in inches) in the form below and press the “Get BMI” button to find out your body mass index.

The higher your BMI, the higher your risk is for health conditions, such as:

• Diabetes
• High Blood Pressure
• Cardiovascular Disease
• Osteoarthritis
• Cancer

Waist Circumference

Waist circumference, which can be measured by wrapping a measuring tape firmly around your waist, is a good indicator of abdominal fat. Men should target a waist circumference less than 40 inches, and women should aim for less than 35 inches. Waist circumferences that exceed these guidelines can put one at risk for cardiovascular disease.

Risk Factors

To determine your risk for complications related to obesity, you will want to pay attention to the following risk factors:

• Physical inactivity
• Smoking
• Family history of cardiovascular disease
• High blood pressure
• High LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol)
• Low HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol)
• High tryglycerides
• High blood sugar

More Information

A physician or nutritionist is the best source for learning about your ideal weight, reaching it or maintaining it. To schedule an appointment with a Kelsey-Seybold doctor or nutritionist, call the Customer Service Contact Center at (713) 442-0427. The Contact Center is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.