Importance Of Keeping A Healthy BMI For A Healthy Lifestyle

BMI, or Body Mass Index, is a term that we come across regularly. When we go to the doctor, the nurse assesses our height and weight. These measurements inform the doctor about the amount of fat in a patient's body, i.e. BMI. Isn't it strange that our BMI has been computed millions of times and we are still oblivious of it? Body Mass Index calculation is critical for determining whether or not you are maintaining a healthy weight.

What is a Healthy Body Mass Index? 

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a calculation of a person's weight in relation to his or her height. It is an indication rather than a direct measurement of a person's total body fat. BMI frequently correlates with total body fat. This indicates that if a person's BMI rises, so will their total body fat. According to WHO, an adult with a BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight, but an adult with a BMI of 30 or more is termed obese. However, an adult with a BMI of less than 18.5 is considered underweight, whereas one with a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 is deemed healthy.

Body Mass Index calculation depends on gender and age. These factors are most prominent in children and people aged between 2 to 18. BMI is calculated in children in the same way that it is in adults and then compared to z-scores or percentiles. Because the weight-to-height ratio fluctuates with gender and age during childhood and adolescence, the cut-off values that indicate the nutritional status of persons aged 0–19 years are gender- and age-specific.

Calculating BMI and maintaining a healthy body weight assist in achieving maximum health, staying in shape, and living a longer, healthier life. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight might be advantageous in the long run. But the primary question is, "How can I maintain a healthy BMI?" To maintain a healthy BMI, one must practise healthy living habits.

Let's have a look at some recommendations for maintaining healthy lifestyle habits.

1.   A balanced diet for a balanced life

It's not just one meal! A well-balanced meal, on the other hand, will make a significant difference. A meal infused with a variety of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts will aid in preventing inflammatory diseases like heart diseases. The quantities and proportions according to the requirement for calories, proteins, minerals, vitamins and alternative nutrients are the key ingredients of a balanced diet.

2.   Regular exercise, make it a habit!

Physical activity is critical for people of all weights and health conditions. Regular exercise helps you burn calories, maintain muscle mass, and provide benefits to your heart and circulatory system. Walking, jogging, swimming, or doing an at-home Pilates workout for 150 minutes a week will not only help you maintain a healthy weight but will also lower your risk of developing diseases.

3.   Stress management

Many illnesses, ranging from migraines to heart problems, have been linked to stress. Different ways such as watching a funny movie, painting, going for long walks, gardening, listening to music, or soaking in a bubble bath prove to be effective stress relievers Talking to your friends and family members is another effective way to get rid of negative thoughts. Sharing your feelings with people you trust can provide immediate stress relief and aid in the release of tension.

4.   Drink plenty of water

Stay hydrated! This is without a doubt one of the most important aspects of living a healthy life. Adults should consume at least 1.5 litres of fluid per day! Or even more, if it's extremely hot or they're physically active.  Fruit juices, tea, soft drinks, milk, and other beverages can all be consumed on occasion. Our bodies are composed of 80 per cent water, and water is required for normal bowel function, optimal muscle performance, and immune and skin health. Dehydration, fatigue, headaches, dry skin, and weakened immunity are all side effects of not drinking enough water.

How do living habits affect healthy BMI? 

As part of any obesity treatment plan, doctors recommend eating a balanced diet and gradually increasing physical activity. If you are overweight or otherwise at risk, these lifestyle changes can also help prevent obesity. Obesity-related conditions such as hypertension and type 2 diabetes can be managed or reversed by achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise. Poor lifestyle choices are thought to contribute to an increase in BMI, thereby indirectly contributing to an increase in fatal medical conditions in the body.

Importance of maintaining a healthy Body Mass Index?

Maintaining a healthy body mass index is critical for not only overall fitness but also for reducing the body's vulnerability to various diseases. Obese people are more likely to develop serious health issues such as diabetes and heart disease. Furthermore, even if you have been ignoring it, it is never too late to work toward your ideal body weight. High blood pressure and breathing difficulties can be easily reduced if you try to maintain a healthy body mass index.