Bmi formula nhsmail
The BMI (Body Mass Index) formula is a widely used indicator of body fat based on height and weight. The formula is:
BMI = weight (in kg) / height (in meters)²
In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) uses the following BMI categories:
- Underweight: BMI < 18.5
- Normal weight: BMI = 18.5-24.9
- Overweight: BMI = 25-29.9
- Obese: BMI ≥ 30
Here's the formula in more detail:
- Convert your weight from pounds to kilograms: weight (in kg) = weight (in pounds) / 2.20462
- Convert your height from inches to meters: height (in meters) = height (in inches) / 39.37
- Square your height in meters: height² = height (in meters)²
- Divide your weight in kilograms by your height squared: BMI = weight (in kg) / height²
For example, let's say you weigh 70 kg and are 1.65 meters tall:
- Convert weight to kg: 70 pounds / 2.20462 = 31.76 kg
- Convert height to meters: 65 inches / 39.37 = 1.65 meters
- Square height: 1.65² = 2.7225
- Calculate BMI: BMI = 31.76 kg / 2.7225 = 11.7
According to the NHS BMI categories, a BMI of 11.7 falls into the "normal weight" category.
Remember that BMI is not a perfect measure of health, as it does not take into account muscle mass or body composition. However, it can provide a general indication of whether your weight is in a healthy range for your height.