How Important is BMI #'s?

Amanda_1973
Amanda_1973 Posts: 28 Member
in Motivation and Support
I just lost 50 lbs and I can actually be okay where I'm too right now, just out of curiosity I did my numbers for BMI and am still in "overweight" status :( and I'd have to lose another 21 lbs in order to reach "normal" status. I don't know if I have it in me to lose another 21 lbs. Trying to decide what to do. Any thoughts?

Replies

  • JessicaMcB
    JessicaMcB Posts: 1,503 Member
    On an individual basis I think it's best to discuss your personal risk factors with your doctor re: remaining in the overweight category.
  • nadler64
    nadler64 Posts: 124 Member
    BMIs are a statistical measure. They don't and can't apply to everyone equally. Talk to your doctor.
  • lorrpb
    lorrpb Posts: 11,463 Member
    Doctors ususlly go by BMI so I don't know how much help that would be. But do know about your risk factors. That should a guide. Most people, including, my trainer thought I looked ok when I was 15 lbs above bmi normal. Now I'm just into the nutmdl range & won't go much further.
  • Amanda_1973
    Amanda_1973 Posts: 28 Member
    you know what Jem, I think that is a fantastic idea...it's been a long road and not an easy road and I'm really happy with it and until I seen those #'s earlier I figured I was good where I am, but seeing that and thinking another 21 lbs :#:# ...I'm fitting into a size 12 or size 10, which is where I envisioned myself when this all started, the main reason I decided to take this journey is because I was diagnosed with Fatty Liver, High cholesterol and my Blood Pressure was high, so this blood work will reveal information for sure and indicate what else needs to be done. It wouldn't hurt to learn some maintaining techniques anyway as this is a lifetime change now and not a short term change.
  • SueInAz
    SueInAz Posts: 6,592 Member
    edited August 2016
    Amanda_1973 wrote: »
    you know what Jem, I think that is a fantastic idea...it's been a long road and not an easy road and I'm really happy with it and until I seen those #'s earlier I figured I was good where I am, but seeing that and thinking another 21 lbs :#:# ...I'm fitting into a size 12 or size 10, which is where I envisioned myself when this all started, the main reason I decided to take this journey is because I was diagnosed with Fatty Liver, High cholesterol and my Blood Pressure was high, so this blood work will reveal information for sure and indicate what else needs to be done. It wouldn't hurt to learn some maintaining techniques anyway as this is a lifetime change now and not a short term change.

    I agree that this is a great idea. Maintain for awhile, talk with your doctor and see if you might need to lose a little more later. Keep in mind that BMI is not the end all and be all of health indicators. Those with larger bone structures and more muscle mass will have higher BMIs than someone who is smaller framed and is not muscular at the same height and weight. Most body builders have BMIs in the obese range but they are obviously not obese nor at risk for the health issues a typical obese person is.

    You might discuss with your doctor the opportunity to have a body fat measurement done. That's a much better indicator of your health than your BMI.

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