BMI Why I don't believe in it!
BMI is so overrated.
Let’s begin by discussing BMI, which stands for Body Mass Index. It is a tool used by health professionals, such as doctors and personal trainers, to determine which weight category you fall into. These categories include underweight, healthy weight, overweight, or obese. By performing a simple calculation of weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters, your doctor can determine if you are within a healthy weight range or not.
What are the limitations of BMI?
BMI is a measure of body weight, but it does not indicate excess body fat specifically. It cannot differentiate between fat, muscle, and bone mass, nor can it determine where fat is located in the body. Keep in mind that muscle weighs more than fat.
Typically, the calculations are done and evaluated before taking into account your dietary habits, blood tests, lifestyle, ethnicity, or any existing health issues you may have. This may make you feel like you have been categorised by the individual conducting the assessment.
BMI doesn’t account for how you feel. For instance, you could have more or less weight than what is considered healthy according to BMI and still feel fantastic. You may feel good about your body, have abundant energy, excellent bloodwork, great skin, and a healthy digestive system.
What are the Implications of the BMI tool?
If you’re aiming to shed some pounds, following a health regimen, or have received advice that your weight falls outside the healthy range according to the BMI tool, you may become preoccupied with it. You might step on the weighing scale daily, and track and analyse your food intake. This shift in focus from your original health concerns to fitting within an unrealistic weight range can adversely affect your mental well-being and cause body anxiety. Additionally, it can impact your social life by causing you to limit your food choices, avoid certain foods, or even cancel plans with loved ones. You may also end up over-exercising.
Instead consider the below:
Your waist circumference (>80cm for Women and >94cm for Men, can be associated with a higher risk of chronic conditions.)
Blood Cholesterol levels
Blood Pressure Levels
Blood Sugar Levels.
My best tip is to not do a BMI calculation, instead ask these questions:
How do I feel?
Do I have lots of energy?
Do I get tired easily?
Am I eating well and nourishing my body?
Have I had bloods done recently?
Remember a BMI calculation does not give you the whole story of you!
If you are concerned about your weight, please send me an email or book a discovery call to discuss how I can help.
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