The body mass index or BMI is a measurement used to estimate a suitable body weight based on an individual’s height. BMI indicates the level of body fat. Simple BMI classifications give every person the knowledge to improve their health. In broad terms, a BMI of 18.5 or lower is considered underweight. 18.5 to 24.5 is considered to fall within the healthy range. Over 25 indicates being overweight. Over 30 falls within a range considered obese.

BMIedge.com offers you an online body mass index calculator a quick and easy way to assess whether your particular weight falls within a range considered healthy. There are reasons why monitoring your BMI promotes good health. The health benefits of having a normal BMI reading are a reduced risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and stress on your joints. For people with a lot of weight to lose, their normal BMI weight provides them with a goal to aim for.

The BMI classifications also enable health professionals to recognize people with a low BMI who possibly have an eating disorder, or it can alert them to certain health problems that a person with a high BMI may have. It shouldn’t be ignored and plays an important role in helping you to manage your long-term health.