Body Mass Index Flashcards, test questions and answers
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What is Body Mass Index?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a numerical measure used to assess the health of an individual based on their weight and height. It is defined as a person’s body mass divided by the square of their height, and is generally expressed in kilograms per meter squared (kg/m2). BMI can be used to screen for potential health risks associated with being either underweight or overweight. Underweight individuals may suffer from nutrient deficiencies, while those who are overweight run the risk of developing serious medical conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. Because of this, it is important to keep track of your BMI over time to ensure you remain within healthy limits. Additionally, understanding how certain lifestyle choices affect your BMI can help you make necessary adjustments if needed. For many adults, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered ideal; however, age, sex, muscle mass, ethnicity and other factors should be taken into account when assessing what constitutes a healthy range for each individual. Those who have higher BMIs than recommended can take steps towards improving their overall health by engaging in physical activity regularly and eating a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables and whole grains instead of processed foods high in saturated fats or sugars. In conclusion, Body Mass Index provides valuable insight into an individual’s state of health relative to their size and weight which can inform preventive measures against chronic diseases related to obesity or malnutrition; ultimately leading to improved wellbeing overall.