How Do You Measure Your BMI?

Body mass index, or “BMI,” is a widely used screening tool designed to measure one’s percentage of body fat in relation to their height. This can be used to evaluate whether a patient is at a healthy weight range for their height, but typically does account for factors like fat distribution, muscle mass, or bone density. That said, knowing your BMI can give you a deeper understanding of the most ideal weight loss surgery options to help you achieve your goals.

To measure BMI, a patient’s weight in kilograms (kg) is divided by their height in meters (m)². This provides a value which is then categorized into one of several classes: underweight, normal weight, overweight, obese (class 1), obese (class 2), or morbid obesity (class 3). However, it’s important to remember that BMI is a convenient screening tool, but it does not distinguish between fat and muscle. Therefore, an athlete with significant muscle mass and low body fat may have a high BMI, while someone with a low BMI might have more body fat comparatively.

For a more accurate measurement of your health in relation to factors unique to you, it’s advisable to also consider:

• Body fat percentage
• Waist circumference
• Body fat distribution (subcutaneous vs. internal fat)

A high body mass index may increase the risk of health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and joint problems. We encourage you to speak with our general surgery practitioners and bariatric surgeons to discuss your concerns and weight loss goals in person.

At SSCS Kane Center, our bariatric surgery specialists are committed to identifying an effective treatment plan for you based on your unique needs. Contact our Chicago weight loss practice to book an appointment at our office or to learn more about how to meet your weight loss goals.