The body mass index is a biomedical indicator used to determine normal and healthy weight in people of different heights.
It can be used to diagnose obesity or malnutrition. Body mass index is measured in kilograms per square meter. It is determined by a formula.
The formula for determining the body mass index is extremely simple. The individual's weight is divided by the square root of the height. For example, a man weighing 75 kg and height 1.73 has a body mass index - 25.06.
The normal values of this index for women are between 19-24 and for men - 20-25. For the elderly, 26 is considered normal, but people above these values are considered obese.
The body mass index is not indicative for pregnant or lactating women, as well as for people with a significant muscle mass.
