Why is it important to know your BMI?

If you're interested in losing a few extra pounds, or have experienced health problems due to being overweight, you've probably heard about BMI and how crucial it is to know your BMI.

But why is it so important to know your BMI?

The BMI (body mass index) is an indicator that can be used to determine whether a person is at their ideal weight according to their height, if they weigh less than they should, if they are overweight or if they suffer from obesity.

In the bariatric surgery and medicine in general, BMI allows a quick reference on the weight status of any patient, as well as to locate possible health risks associated with excess weight.

Basically, with the BMI you can know if you are at a healthy weight or not.which is essential to understand your overall health situation.

As a reference, it is an ideal starting point to know if you require further studies around your weight, especially if you have a BMI well above the appropriate levels.

You may be interested in: How to lower my body mass index if I am overweight? 

How do you know if your BMI indicates overweight or obesity?

Although the ideal BMI can vary depending on certain characteristics, there are averages with which you can know if you are at your ideal weight or if you are overweight or obese:

• A BMI between 18 and 24.9 means you are at your ideal weight.
• A BMI between 25 and 29.9 means you are overweight.
• A BMI between 30 and 34.9 means that you have type I obesity.
• A BMI between 35 and 39.9 means that you have type II obesity.
• A BMI of more than 40 means that you have type III obesity.

Considering average BMIs for overweight and obesity, you would be overweight if your BMI was greater than 25 and obese if your BMI was greater than 30..

However, keep in mind that these averages are only indications, to be certain about your weight and your health situation in that sense, you have to evaluate your case with an bariatric physician specialized.

If you are dealing with overweight problems, contact our specialists via WhatsApp, email or through our form and show you how we can help you get back to your ideal weight for good.