Your body mass index (=BMI) is more than just a number. It helps track your weight and provides insights into your overall health. This article explains the role of BMI in health and how the Mizu app can assist in monitoring it.
The BMI is a simple calculation based on height and weight that helps assess body composition and weight trends. Medical teams use BMI to track changes in weight over time. Your BMI is calculated using the following formula:
Body mass index (BMI) = Weight (kg) / Height (m)²
While the BMI is not a perfect measurement, it is a useful tool for assessing weight-related health risks.
What are the different BMI classes?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), BMI is categorized as follows:
Monitoring BMI can help track long-term weight changes. The Mizu app can automatically calculate your BMI when a new weight entry is entered.
The global obesity epidemic
While a small percentage of people in high-income countries are underweight (BMI < 18.5 kg/m²), nearly 50% may be overweight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²). In some regions, up to 20% of the population is classified as obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²).
Due to these statistics, the WHO has identified obesity as a major global health concern. If you are considering weight loss, consulting your medical team is recommended. They can support your journey and inform you about new therapeutic approaches to manage weight effectively.
How BMI affects overall health
Scientific studies confirm that obesity increases the risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Conversely, underweight individuals may experience fatigue, a weakened immune system, and loss of bone density (=osteoporosis). Maintaining a BMI within the normal range is generally recommended to promote overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
How BMI impacts kidney health
Both underweight and obesity affect overall health, but their impact on kidney health varies depending on the stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
For more information on how weight influences different CKD stages, dialysis, or kidney transplantation, the Mizu app provides helpful insights and knowledge articles. However, it is essential to consult your medical team to determine the ideal BMI for your specific condition.
The BMI calculator in the Mizu App
The Mizu app provides tools to monitor BMI effortlessly. It automatically calculates and categorizes BMI based on WHO standards whenever you log your weight. Additionally, Mizu offers a range of information to help manage weight effectively. However, always consult your medical team to determine the best target weight for your health profile and goals.
