Too Low, Too High, or Just Right? How Your BMI Can

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Too Low, Too High, or Just Right? How Your BMI Can Affect Your Health and Wellness

https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition...2018-03-29



BMI is like the goldilocks of health stats. You don’t want it too high or too low — but having it just right is a boon to your well-being.

To find your BMI, you calculate your weight in kilograms divided by your height in meters squared. You can avoid doing the calculation yourself by plugging your stats into an online calculator, like the one from the CDC. (3)

After finding your number, here’s where you fall:

BMI 18.5 to 24.9 = Normal weight

BMI 25 to 29.9 = Overweight

BMI 30 and higher = Obesity

What Factors Can Influence Your BMI?

The truth is that weight gain can be attributed to a complex mix of factors. People want to boil it down to eating too many potato chips, but that’s rarely all that’s going on.

That said, there are three main drivers for BMI, says O’Neil: “I tell people it’s who you choose for your parents and what you choose for dinner and exercise,” he says. “There’s a substantial genetic component to being obese and where you carry your fat,” he adds. There’s also your environment, including your access to healthy foods or the walkability of your town. Healthy habits like sleep and exercise matter. The guidelines for staying active — the government recommendations of 150 minutes of moderate exercise every week — still stand. (14)

There are also drugs to consider, some of which are associated with weight gain and which many people take to treat chronic health problems in the first place. The best person to talk to about these side effects is an obesity medicine specialist or your primary care physician, says Yancy. Other conditions, like hypothyroidism (low thyroid) can contribute to weight gain. Injuries and illnesses can also factor in, since they can interfere with your ability to exercise or stay active in general, he adds.

Of course, there is the healthy eating part, too. But that can be equally as complex, particularly if you eat to cope with your emotions. In that case, a registered dietitian, especially one who specializes in emotional or intuitive eating, can help.

One final thought: Despite the perks of being a normal weight, you’ll still reap substantial benefits from a modest weight loss — no matter where your BMI stands now. The CDC recommends losing 5 to 10 percent of your current body weight, which can decrease your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol, they point out. (15)

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