Above is a BMI Chart. BMI stands for Body Mass Index. It is a height to weight ratio, and is the most accepted screening tool used to assess weight categories that may lead to health problems. Knowing your BMI can give you an important indication of your risk of developing a range of obesity-related health issues including metabolic syndrome, diabetes, heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure.
How to find your BMI
1. Read across the top of the chart to find your height (in feet and inches).
2. Read down the left side of the chart and find your weight (in pounds).
2. The point where those two lines meet will give you your BMI.
What Does Your BMI Number Mean?
In the Green
If your BMI is 24 or less (green) then you have a normal weight and are in the healthy range. A BMI of 18 or below would make you underweight.
In the Yellow
If your BMI is between 25 and 29 (yellow) then you are overweight for your height. Individuals who fall in this range are at increased risk for a variety of illnesses, and may already be suffering from Metabolic Syndrome.
In the Red
If your BMI is 30 or greater, then you are obese. Individuals with a BMI over 30 are in a physically unhealthy condition, which puts them at risk for serious illnesses such as high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, cancer, as well as diseases of the gall bladder disease, heart, liver and lungs.
What to Do Next
If your BMI reading is in the yellow or red, you should immediately see a physician to assess other risk factors of cardiovascular disease. You should also start on a weight-loss program. The easiest way to lose weight is to eliminate from your diet the foods that put your health at risk in the first place. Refined carbohydrates are the biggest culprit. These empty calories are found in such foods as sodas and fruit drinks, unhealthy snacks including potato chips, corn chips, cakes and cookies, and foods such as bread, potatoes, pasta and white rice. Reduce your portions of these foods or cut them out completely wherever you can to get on the road to better health and longevity!