What is BMI and how to maintain it?

Most of us are conscious about our weight, but how many know about BMI? BMI is an acronym for ‘Body Mass Index’. It is a numbered value that measures body fat based on the weight in accordance with the height. Any other factors such as age, sex and ethnicity are irrelevant in calculating BMI over the age of 20.

In simple terms, BMI is calculated to determine whether an individual is underweight, overweight, obese or healthy weight for their height. The index above or below the healthy range entails a higher risk of diseases and ailments.

A general scale representing these categories:

•    Underweight - 18.5 and below
•    Healthy Weight - 18.5 to 24.9
•    Overweight - 25 to 29.9
•    Obese - 30 and above

A person with a healthy BMI has fewer joint or muscle pain and hence can participate in added activities. It denotes a healthy heart and better regulation of bodily fluids. Moreover, it adjusts the blood pressure and helps in maintaining a healthy sleeping pattern. Here are 5 tips to maintain your BMI:

Identify Ideal Weight

The first step is to identify your BMI. Once you’ve done that, you can recognize your ideal weight depending on your height. That will help you to ascertain the ideal calorie intake and help you to reach your ideal weight.

Breakfast is Essential

With our hectic schedules, we tend to sleep late and wake up accordingly. This results in rushing to work without a proper breakfast. Make it a point to have a proper breakfast before you leave home. Breakfast is the most important meal as it aids your metabolism and gives you the energy for the day. You can have bread without yeast but with milk if you cannot have a hearty meal. One can give fruit bread to kids for their energy requirement. 

Fruit Bread - Modern Foods


Sufficient Exercise

Doctors advise exercising at least four times a week to stay fit. Regular workout burns body fat and builds muscle. It results in weight regulation and increases body strength. Jogging, cycling, swimming or even taking a walk on a regular basis help in maintaining your BMI. The level and duration of the training depend on the calories you want to burn.

Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables provide us with the essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, they’re a great source of fiber. Fiber improves metabolism and helps you to intake a healthy diet. Fiber helps you to stop overeating and thus keeping a check on your weight.

Sleeping Cycle
Sleep plays an important role in marinating your weight. The body requires a certain amount of rest. Most adults require 7 to 8 hours of sleep. Enough sleep moderates your temperament and helps in keeping fit. Make sure to sleep on time and wake up accordingly.

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