What is Body Mass Index (BMI)?
The Body Mass Index (BMI) which is also known as the Quetelet Index is a value that is derived from the weight (mass) and the height of a person. The Body Mass Index (BMI) is body mass divided by the square of body height. BMI is expressed universally in units of kg/m2. This expression denotes the mass in kilograms and the height in meters. The BMI quantifies the tissue mass which comprises of muscle, fat, and bone in a person. The reading then categorizes the individual as normal weight, underweight, overweight, or obese on the basis of the value.

How is BMI for women different from men?
Women typically have more body fat while men have more muscular mass. There is a no different calculator for calculating BMI for women or BMI for men. It tends to overestimate fatness in people who are athletic or muscular. A waist-to-height ratio of 0.5 is considered to be healthy. In general, the BMI for women is slightly lower when compared to men. However, in the cases of boys and girls, it is just the opposite. It is known that women in general carry more body fat compared to men and this is normal. Men, on the other hand, have more muscles. Muscles weigh more than fat, thus, there is a difference in the BMI values between the opposite genders. As a matter of fact, scientists consider 33% fat in women and 25% fat in men to be normal. This means if your body weight is composed of 33% fat, your BMI value will fall in the normal category.

How does BMI Affect Women’s Health?
Women who are above the age of 20 years can use the standard BMI chart to know whether they are healthy or not. If you are overweight or obese, you will be a high risk of different health conditions. In fact, women who have a high-fat percentage can face fertility issues as well. Even women who are underweight have issues with their reproductive health. According to health experts, the optimum BMI values for reproduction lies in the middle of the normal range. This means even if your BMI is less than 23 or 22, you might face difficulty in conceiving. Women who are obese have irregular periods and that affects their reproductive health as well. Ideally, if you are planning on conceiving, bring your BMI close to the middle of the normal range in order to avoid troubles.

If the BMI readings indicate that you are underweight, overweight, or obese, you must consult your doctor and take steps to restore it to normal. Eat healthy and exercise regularly to maintain a sound Body Mass Index.