Know Your Body Mass Index

KNOW YOUR BODY MASS INDEX

Knowing your body mass index can help you aim for a healthy weight range.

©  Congratulations if you have a BMI of 18.5- 25.0!

You are at less risk for many diseases and are likely to live longer.

©  If your BMI is above 25.0 you are at increased risk of diseases

such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Lifestyle changes in your diet and physical activity can

have a big impact on improving your health.

DIET

©  Pay attention to the number of servings consumed.

©  Reduce saturated fats and refined sugars.

©  Eat lean meats, vegetable protein, fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Exercise

©  Exercise burns calories and excess body fat.

©  Walking is an excellent exercise that is free.

To DETERMINE YOUR BMI

·  Multiply your weight in pounds by 703.

·  Divide that answer by your height in inches.

·  Divide that answer by your height in inches again.

BMI / CATEGORY
Below 18.5 / Underweight
18.5 - 24.9 / Healthy
25 and Over / Overweight

***It is advisable to speak with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

***Doctors use a different method for calculating BMI for children. Check with your child’s pediatrician for more information.

***An athlete or body builder with more muscle mass may have a higher BMI and still be in the healthy range. A doctor can help them determine a healthy weight range.