What is BMI? Understanding Your Starting Point for Weight Loss
What is BMI?
BMI is a simple screening tool that uses a mathematical formula to assess whether you are at a healthy weight for your height. The calculation is: Weight (in kilograms) / Height (in metres squared).
It provides a quick, universal indicator for estimating body fat and identifying potential health risks related to being overweight or underweight. It’s not the perfect marker to use, however it applies very universally when looking at the weight of a population.
Understanding Your BMI Result
In the UK, the following categories are used for adults:
- Underweight: BMI Below 18.5
- Healthy Weight Range: BMI 18.5 – 24.9
- Overweight: BMI 25.0 – 29.9
- Obese: BMI 30.0 or above
For many adults, keeping your BMI in the healthy weight range is associated with a lower risk of developing conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Is BMI the Whole Picture?
While BMI is a great starting point for any BMI weight loss calculator UK tool, it has limitations. It cannot differentiate between muscle mass and fat mass. For instance, a very muscular person may have a high BMI but very little body fat.
That's why a comprehensive assessment is crucial. At Staffordshire Weight Loss, we look beyond the number. Our team considers factors like your waist circumference, medical history, and existing health conditions to create a truly personalised weight management plan.
Start Your Journey at Your Local Cornwell's Chemists
The criteria for many medically supervised weight loss treatments often depend on your BMI. If you have a BMI over 30 (or over 27 with an underlying condition), you may be eligible for our services.
Staffordshire Weight Loss provides expert, medically supervised care, including the option of clinically proven weight loss medications. Book an in-person consultation at any of our Cornwell's Chemists locations to determine your eligibility and start building a healthier future today.