The BMI or Body Mass Index is a measurement that is used to estimate a body weight that is healthy for each individual. The BMI is based on a person's weight and height.
The BMI is used very widely used to calculate and measure weight problems. It is also used by many people so that they can maintain a healthy weight.
Belgian mathematician and scientist, Adolphe Quetelet came up with the BMI in the early 1800's. When it was first invented it was named the Quetelet Index after its creator. The name was changed in the early nineteenth century when Ancel Keys discovered it to be the best way to measure the percentage of body fat. Mr. Keys did not believe it was a good measure for individual use but it was beneficial for populous usage. However since it is so simple to use it has become widely used to measure individuals and diagnose whether or not they are at a healthy weight.
BMI is controversial because it was not meant to be relied upon for medical diagnoses of an unhealthy weight. It was mean for simple classification of how much an average person should weigh.
BMI is a person's body weight divided by the square of his or her height. It is used to determine what is a person's desirable or normal weight. The BMI does not predict how healthy a person is. It is just a range to be used to help a person stay within a healthy weight.
BMI is calculated the same way for children and adults but is used differently on children. The average BMI for children is based on age and sex of the child whereas with adults it is based on the weight and height only.
It is not healthy for people to go on crash diets because their BMI is high. A good way to maintain a healthy weight is to eat fat burning foods for a healthy weight.
The BMI is a general calculation to help people maintain a healthy weight but should not replace a physician's advice.