The body mass index (BMI) is a simple and the most commonly used index used to classify overweight and obesity. It is used to assess a person’s weight in relation to their height to see if they are at a healthy weight.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a healthy BMI range is between 18.5 and 24.9.
| Standard BMI Value Range (kg/m2) | Category |
|---|---|
| <18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5–24.9 | Normal weight |
| 25–29.9 kg/m2 | Overweight |
| ≥30 kg/m2 | Obese |
However, at any given BMI, Singaporeans generally have a higher percentage of body fat than Caucasians. the Ministry of Health recommends using the Asian classification for Obesity. A BMI below 18.5 is considered underweight, while a BMI above 22.9 is considered overweight. A BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered pre-obese, while a BMI of 30 or above is considered obese.
| Asian BMI (kg/m2) for adults | Category |
|---|---|
| Below 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5 – 22.9 | Normal weight |
| 23 – 27.5 | Overweight |
| Above 27.5 | Obese |
It is important to note that BMI is not a perfect measure of body fat because it does not account for factors such as muscle mass and bone density. So, a person with a lot of muscle mass could have a higher BMI and still be in good health.
You can use the following formula to determine your BMI:
BMI = weight (kg) / height (m)
For instance, your BMI would be 23.9 (70 / (1.7 x 1.7)) if you weighed 70 kg and were 1.7 meters tall.
Maintaining a healthy BMI is critical because being overweight or obese increases the risk of a variety of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer. Eating a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity are crucial to keep your BMI within a healthy range. It is a good idea to consult a healthcare professional for advice and direction if you are worried about your weight.
