The body mass index (BMI) has been used for a long time as an indicator of overweight and underweight. Nowadays, however, the BMI calculator is increasingly being criticised.
In the following article, we will explain to you exactly why and what else you should consider.
What exactly does the body mass index actually tell us?
The BMI is a formula that calculates body weight in kilograms in relation to height in metres squared. The formula was invented in 1832 by Adolphe Quetelet to determine the standard values of the population and thus be able to classify them. Learn more about the history of BMI.
It is calculated by taking a person's weight in kilograms and dividing it by the square of their height in metres, or BMI = weight (in kg) / height^2 (in m^2). The number generated from this equation is then the person's BMI. 1
The BMI is a purely mathematical formula that therefore does not take many factors into account. These include factors such as body fat percentage, amputations, age and gender, and much more. The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed the BMI table for this purpose, adults in the range of 18.5 to 24.9 are classified as ‘normal weight’.
For men, the normal value is slightly higher because men generally have a higher muscle percentage than women ( BMI calculator for women). For children and adolescents, the BMI value is used as a benchmark for healthy development. But be careful, because different guidelines apply here as well, since children and adolescents are still growing.
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Athletes overweight according to body mass index – what's wrong with that?
People who do a lot of sports are often classified as overweight according to the classification. In particular, strength athletes have this problem. The reason for this is that muscles are heavier than fat. According to the table, Arnold Schwarzenegger has a BMI of over 30, so he is severely overweight. Endurance athletes, on the other hand, are often classified as underweight. You should never rely only on the BMI. Find out more about BMI values for athletes and female athletes.
There are some alternatives to BMI for calculating whether your body weight is healthy, such as the waist-to-height ratio method. Here, the waist circumference in centimetres is divided by the height in centimetres. There is also bioelectrical impedance analysis, which uses electricity to precisely measure the body fat percentage.
Different fat distribution is not taken into account
Another point of criticism is that the BMI value does not take into account the fat distribution in the body. There are different body shapes, such as pear shape or apple shape. Most women store fat in the thighs, hips or buttocks.
Men, on the other hand, often suffer from a beer belly. If you are wondering whether you have a healthy build, you definitely need to consider your fat distribution. You can also use the waist-to-height ratio method for this or have a fat percentage test done by a doctor.
Why is BMI controversial and subject to criticism?
As mentioned earlier, many criteria are not taken into account when calculating BMI. A high BMI in seniors is quite normal and even healthier. Small fat reserves help the body to survive illnesses.
In general, BMI is not suitable as the sole indicator of health. Obesity increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and stroke. If you have any doubts about your health, you should consult a doctor and not just look at your BMI.
Conclusion: criticism of BMI
We have summarised all the pros and cons for you again:
Pro points BMI
- The BMI is definitely a good value and warning for anorexia or obesity
- It is a good guideline if you consider certain criteria yourself
- Quick orientation guide to classify your body weight
Contra points BMI
- The different fat distribution is not taken into account
- Muscle vs. fat mass is not taken into account in the weight
- Age, gender and amputations are also not included in the calculation.
- The BMI says nothing about stroke or heart risks.
So there are some advantages and disadvantages that play a role in calculating your BMI. The most important thing is that you eat a balanced diet and feel comfortable in your body. In addition, you should exercise or move regularly, regardless of your weight.
Our secret tip for you: in addition to exercise, you should eat a delicious, nutritious and healthy breakfast every day, because breakfast is the most important meal of the day!
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How can I calculate my body mass index?
You can quickly and easily calculate your BMI with our BMI calculator.
- Weir C, Jan A. statpearls. Published online December 7, 2019. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541070/
