Calculating body mass index (BMI) is a crucial step in weight loss journeys and overall health assessments. Body mass index is a measure of body fat based on height and weight. For instance, an individual weighing 160 pounds and standing 5 feet 10 inches tall would have a BMI of 25.3.
BMI plays a vital role in determining weight status and associated health risks. It helps identify underweight, overweight, and obese individuals. Understanding BMI allows individuals to set realistic weight loss goals and make informed decisions about their lifestyle and dietary choices. The concept of BMI originated in the mid-1800s when Adolphe Quetelet, a Belgian mathematician, developed a formula to classify individuals based on their weight and height.