Should You Trust the Body Mass Index Chart?

Answer 1

If you have ever looked for a simple way to find out if you are a good weight for your height, you might have come across a body mass index chart. These charts have been used for many years now, and everyone from insurance agents to fitness trainers look at them when determining a healthy weight range for various individuals. If you're looking for a simple way to get a general idea about whether or not your weight is appropriate and healthy for your height, a body mass index chart can be very helpful. However, you should keep a few things in mind when using these charts.AgeAge does play a part in whether or not a body mass index chart is accurate. Those who are under the age of 18, for example, should never use this chart as a real indication of whether or not they are overweight because they are still growing, and the chart does not account for this. If you are interested in determining a healthy weight for a child, it's best to work with a pediatrician for this information.Bone StructureSome individuals are bigger-boned and have larger frames and statures than others, and the average body mass index chart does not really address this. If you are large-framed, you shouldn't be worried about being on the higher end of a healthy weight for your size.Muscle MassMany people who are actually incredibly healthy and who are in extremely good shape are seen as being morbidly obese when you look at a body mass index chart. This is because muscle weighs more than fat, and these individuals are very muscular. Therefore, you should take a look at your own muscle mass when trying to determine if your weight is healthy, and you shouldn't let a body mass index chart tell you that you are overweight or obese if you know that you are healthy and strong.Overall, a good body mass index chart can be a handy tool that can help you determine whether or not your weight is healthy, but it isn't a fail-proof tool. If you are in doubt, you should consider talking to a physician or other qualified professional to find out more about whether or not you should lose weight.