BMI – Body Mass Index
Obesity isn’t just a matter of how much a person weighs. It depends to some degree on the Body Mass Index (BMI). This is a number that divides weight by height in metric measurements – weight in kilograms and height in meters squared.
You can calculate your own BMI even if you don’t know your weight and height in metric numbers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has an easy BMI calculator that allows you to enter your height in feet and inches and your weight in pounds.
The BMI scale assesses whether you are underweight through to severely obese as follows:
Supplied by BMI Calculator USA
BMI | Weight Designation |
Under 18.5 | Underweight |
18.5 – 24.9 | Ideal weight |
25 – 29.9 | Overweight |
| 30 – 34.9 | Obese |
| 35 – 39.9 | Severely obese |
40 – 49.9 | Morbidly obese |
| 50+ | Super obese |
Waist circumference is also considered to be an important measurement. This is because carrying considerable fat in the waist and abdomen has been shown to cause potentially more serious health problems than carrying fat in other parts of the body. A woman is considered obese if her waist measurement is more than 35 inches. A man is considered obese if his waist measurement is more than 40 inches.
Generally speaking, however, Intragastric Balloon surgery requires a minimum BMI of 30, while all other bariatric surgeries require a minimum BMI of 35 with a weight-related health problem or 40 with or without a weight related health problem.
At the Institute, we take into account your entire medical history, as well as your goals and lifestyle, to design a customized weight loss plan that will suit your life. We strive to help you lose weight safely and improve medical conditions associated with obesity, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Contact us today to find out more about our thorough and caring Obesity & Bariatric Program with Dr. Lutfi.