Body mass index (BMI) is a formula that uses weight and height to estimate body fat (both metric and imperial units included). Excess body fat is related to serious health conditions. For most people, BMI provides a reasonable estimate of body fat. The BMI's biggest weakness is that it doesn't consider individual factors such as bone or muscle mass. BMI may:
• Underestimate body fat for older adults or other people with low muscle mass
• Overestimate body fat for people who are very muscular and physically fit
• Inadequately evaluate health risks of people with excess abdominal fat
Talk with your doctor if you have questions about your BMI.
