The BMI calculator, performs the calculation of the index of Body Mass according to the relation between height and weight in adults
| 🡄 Delgadez | Obesidad 🡆 |
Classification and colour codes of BMI calculator
| Clasificación | IMC (kg/m²) | Color |
|---|---|---|
| Peso insuficiente | < 18,5 | |
| Peso normal | 18,5 – 24,9 | |
| Sobrepeso grado I | 25,0 – 26,9 | |
| Sobrepeso grado II | 27,0 – 29,9 | |
| Obesidad tipo I | 30,0 – 34,9 | |
| Obesidad tipo II | 35,0 – 39,9 | |
| Obesidad tipo III (mórbida) | 40,0 – 49,9 | |
| Obesidad tipo IV (extrema) | 50,0 – 64,9 | |
| Megaobesidad | ≥ 65 |
The BMI was classified according to the ranges established by the World Health Organization (WHO):
What is the BMI (Body Mass Index)
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a tool used to evaluate if the weight of a person is suitable in relation to your height. Although not directly measured body fat, it is widely used as a general indicator of health, especially in population-based studies.
How do you calculate BMI?
The formula for calculating BMI is:
Example of calculation of BMI
A person who weighs 70 kg and measures 1.75 m:
Important aspects of the BMI calculator
1. Limitations of BMI:
- Does not distinguish between muscle and fat: A muscular person may have a high BMI without being at risk of health problems.
- It does not measure fat distribution: has No account of where body fat (for example, abdominal vs. peripheral), which is crucial to assess cardiovascular risk.
- Variations according to age and sex: The ranges of BMI does not differentiate between men and women and did not consider age-related changes.
2. BMI in children:
In children and teens, BMI is interpreted differently, compared with growth percentiles according to age and sex.
3. Relationship with health problems:
- A low BMI (<18.5) can be associated with malnutrition, osteoporosis, and increased vulnerability to disease.
- A high BMI (≥25) may increase the risk of:
- Cardiovascular diseases.
- Type 2 Diabetes.
- Hypertension.
- Sleep Apnea.
- Certain types of cancer.
Recommendations for the management of the BMI
- For low BMI (<18.5):
- To evaluate possible causes as a deficiency calorie, chronic illness or eating disorders.
- Planning a diet rich in nutrients and calories.
- For normal weight (18.5–24.9):
- Maintain healthy habits like a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and stress management.
- For overweight (25-29.9):
- Reduce the consumption of food ultraprocesados.
- Incorporate physical activity moderate-to-intense at least 150 minutes per week.
- For obesity (≥30):
- Design a personalized plan with a health care professional.
- In severe cases, consider medical and surgical interventions.
The BMI calculator is a useful tool to assess the nutritional status and the risks associated with the weight, but should be interpreted in the context of each person.
For a complete evaluation, it is recommended to combine it with other indicators such as the distribution of body fat, and medical history. If you have any doubts about your BMI or you need to improve your health, consult with a professional in nutrition or medicine.