A Simple Guide to BMI How to Calculate

Oct 11, 2024

INSIGHTS,TECHNOLOGY

When it comes to understanding your overall health, BMI how to calculate is an important question. Body Mass Index is a useful tool that can give you insight into whether your weight falls within a healthy range.

BMI how to calculate is a vital question. Whether you're curious about BMI how to calculate or using a BMI calculator, this guide has you covered. If you're exploring weight loss options like bariatric surgery to combat obesity, we'll break it down in simple, easy-to-understand steps. Let’s dive into what Body Mass Index is, how to calculate it, and what it means for your health.

What is BMI?

Body Mass Index is a measurement. Simply, it compares your weight to your height to determine if you are underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. It isn’t a perfect measure of health, because it doesn’t account for factors like muscle mass or fat distribution. However, it provides a general picture of where you stand in terms of body weight.

Why is BMI Important?

Doctors and health professionals often use BMI calculator. It is a starting point to assess your health and evaluate your risk for conditions. Whether your index falls into the overweight or obese range, it may be a sign that you need to make some lifestyle changes. You might also consider medical options, such as bariatric surgery for weight loss, to improve your health.

How to Calculate Body Mass Index

Calculating your Body Mass Index is actually quite simple, and you can do it yourself with just a few steps.

The Formula:

To figure out your Body Mass Index by hand, divide your weight in kilograms (kg) by your height in meters (m). Then, take that result and divide it by your height again.

The formula looks like this:

BMI = weight (kg) / [height (m)²]

For example, if you weigh 70 kilograms and are 1.75 meters tall, the calculation would be:

BMI = 70 / (1.75 × 1.75) = 22.86

What if I Use Pounds and Inches?

If you're using pounds and inches, the formula changes a bit. Multiply your weight in pounds by 703, then divide that by your height in inches squared (your height times itself).

The formula for pounds and inches is:

BMI = (weight (lbs) × 703) / [height (in)²]

For example, if you weigh 154 pounds and are 5’9” tall (69 inches), the calculation would be:

BMI = (154 × 703) / (69 × 69) = 22.74

BMI Categories: What Does Your Score Mean?

Once you've calculated your Body Mass Index, you'll fall into one of the following categories:

Underweight: Less than 18.5
Normal weight: Between 18.5 and 24.9
Overweight: Between 25 and 29.9
Obesity: 30 or higher

These categories help determine if your weight is in a healthy range or if you may be at risk for weight-related health problems.

When Bariatric Surgery is an Option

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough to help you reach a healthy weight, you may want to consider bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery is a medical procedure for weight loss. It can help people with severe obesity lose a significant amount of weight. This is done by making changes to the digestive system.

There are several types of bariatric surgery, such as:

Gastric Bypass: Reduces stomach size and reroutes the digestive system.
Sleeve Gastrectomy: Removes a portion of the stomach, limiting food intake.
Adjustable Gastric Banding: Places a band around the stomach to restrict intake.

Bariatric surgery is usually advisable for those with a Body Mass Index of 40 or higher, or a Body Mass Index of 35+. Especially for those with obesity-related conditions like diabetes or heart disease. It's a life-changing option for those who struggle to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.

To find the best bariatric surgeons globally, platforms like Wupdoc can connect you with top specialists for bariatric surgery consultation. Thanks to Wupdoc, making informed decisions about your weight loss journey is easier than ever.

Understanding BMI how to calculate is a simple but important step in managing your health. Using a BMI calculator or calculating it yourself helps you see if your weight is in a healthy range and if changes are needed. If you’re dealing with obesity, making lifestyle changes or considering weight loss options like bariatric surgery can improve your health and reduce the risk of serious conditions.

Taking control of your health starts with knowing your numbers—so why not check your Body Mass Index today!

top 5 doctors & clinics in Bariatric Surgery Consultation:

Weight Loss Latvia
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5.0
Latvia, SiguldaBariatric Surgery
Weight Loss Latvia offers a comprehensive range of bariatric procedures, including gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, SADI-S, one-anastomosis gastric bypass, and revisional weight-loss surgeries at Sigulda Hospital—one of the leading bariatric surgery centers in Latvia, EU. Our all-inclusive 6 day package covers accommodation, transfers, pre-operative exams, surgery, hospital recovery (not in a hotel), consultations, and personalised lifestyle advice.Each procedure is performed by our two highly experienced, board-certified bariatric surgeons, Dr. Kozlovskis and Dr. Zarinovs, ensuring the highest standards of safety and care. To support your journey to lasting health, we provide a three-month subscription with a UK-based certified bariatric dietitian and ongoing, unlimited support from our surgical team in Latvia.  
# 1
Muzaffer Önder Öner
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5.0
Turkey, İzmirBariatric Surgery
There's a clear rationale behind why our services are preferred—a culmination of expertise, dedication, and a patient-centric approach. With over 15 years of professional experience and a thriving success spanning 18 years, Op.Dr. Muzaffer Önder Öner embodies a commitment to excellence. Continuously evolving alongside his team, he harnesses state-of-the-art medical equipment and cutting-edge treatment methods to ensure optimal outcomes for his patients.At our facility, the well-being of our patients reigns supreme. We take pride in our experienced team, available round the clock, dedicated to providing unparalleled healthcare services. Our commitment to excellence extends to ensuring access to quality care at affordable rates. While upholding reliability and unwavering quality in our healthcare provisions, we offer cost-effective solutions without compromising on the standards of service.
# 2
Dr. Mehmet Akgün Tepeli
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5.0
Turkey, KırklareliBariatric Surgery
Op. Dr. Mehmet Akgün Tepeli, a specialist in Obesity and Metabolic Surgery, graduated from Izmir Ege University Faculty of Medicine in 2001. He offers advanced weight loss solutions, including gastric balloon, gastric botox, and gastric sleeve procedures, designed to help patients achieve effective, long-term results. In addition to obesity treatments, Dr. Tepeli is also experienced in hernia repair, ensuring comprehensive care for his patients. Using the latest techniques, he provides minimally invasive procedures with a focus on patient safety and satisfaction. Trust Dr. Tepeli for expert, personalized care in obesity and metabolic surgery.
# 3
Istanbul Obesity Center
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5.0
Turkey, İstanbulBariatric Surgery
With 22 years of experience and over 80,000 patients served, Istanbul Obesity Center stands as a beacon of excellence in obesity treatment. Our clinic is dedicated to providing top-tier care with a team of specialized doctors and medical professionals.Our ExpertiseAt Istanbul Obesity Center, we specialize in a range of obesity treatments designed to meet the unique needs of each patient. Our services include:6-Month Gastric Balloon: A temporary solution to aid weight loss by reducing stomach capacity.12-Month Gastric Balloon: An extended version offering prolonged support for weight management.Swallowable Gastric Balloon: A non-invasive option that provides ease and convenience without the need for surgery.Gastric Sleeve Surgery: A permanent surgical procedure that significantly reduces stomach size to promote weight loss.Gastric Bypass Surgery: A comprehensive procedure that alters the digestive system to facilitate significant long-term weight loss.
# 4
MD. Mehmet Yalım Uctum
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4.9
Turkey, İzmirBariatric Surgery
Dr. Yalım Uçtum, along with the distinguished Izmir Bariatrics team, boasts a combined experience of over 15 years in the field of obesity surgery. Their extensive expertise is a testament to their unwavering dedication to the well-being and health of their patients. Dr. Uçtum's surgical prowess and the team's comprehensive approach have garnered them a reputation for excellence in the field of bariatric procedures. Patients can trust in their care, knowing they are in the capable hands of professionals who prioritize safety and effectiveness. The team's commitment extends beyond the operating room, encompassing personalized pre-operative and post-operative care to ensure optimal outcomes and long-term success for every patient. With Dr. Yalım Uçtum and the Izmir Bariatrics team, individuals seeking transformative solutions for obesity can find solace in a practiced and compassionate partnership.
# 5