It’s All In The Numbers…

I don't want to be a braggart but, being great with numbers runs in my family. Honestly!!! My cousin went to Princeton for Mathematics. My nephew is studying Aerospace Engineering. My father headed the Data Processing Division in the early days of computers. And my uncle had a PhD in Economics. So, how then did this love and understanding of numbers skip right over me? I still, have to use my fingers when it comes to 8+5 and 7+5.

The reality though is that numbers are important, honest and usually reliable. And, we have to learn how to work with them. Enter Body Mass Index (BMI). A meaningful equation, that's kind of fancy and gets overlooked. 

Body Mass Index (BMI).

Weight in pounds ÷ Height in inches (㎡) x 703
Example: 150 ÷ 70 (square 70) = .0306 x 703 = 21.52
*Your height is squared so 70x70 before you divide by 150 in the above equation

Why should we care about our BMI or how to calculate it? Because it's an easy way for us to figure out if our weight is in a healthy range. Now, BMI isn't perfect and there are other measurements that give a more complete picture but, it's quick and evidence-based. It's one of the indicators of good health, and a lower BMI is associated with a lower risk for chronic illness.

What I love about BMI is that it's a way for me to be in control. If I don't like this number I can just make some better lifestyle choices and bring it into a range that makes me happy. And, in our family it's a lot more honest than the old, "sweetie how do I look in this outfit" gauge. ;)

Take care of yourselves.
xo Kathryn 
A Happy Balance

BMI RANGES

Underweight: Your BMI is less than 18.5

Healthy weight: Your BMI is 18.5 to 24.9

Overweight: Your BMI is 25 to 29.9

Obese: Your BMI is 30 or higher