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To calculate your body mass index, take your height in inches and multiply this number by itself. Divide the result into your weight in pounds. Multiply this result by 704.5. The result is your body mass index. Example: A man 6 feet tall, weighing 160 pounds, takes his height in inches and multiplies the number by itself; 72 times 72 makes 5,184. Dividing 160 pounds by 5,184 gives .0308641. Multiplying this number by 704.5 gives a body mass index of 21.7, a healthy level.
Less than 18.5: You're underweight. See a doctor to rule out hidden disease. If she says you're OK, hit the pizza shop on the way home. 18.5 to 24.9: You're at a healthy weight. Have a gummy bear on your way to the gym. 25.0 to 29.9: You're overweight and at elevated risk of disease. See a doctor to plot a fitness program. Over 30: You're a serious illness waiting to happen. See a doctor, ideally one specializing in weight problems, for a comprehensive checkup and fitness plan. Consider weight-loss drugs or, in the most extreme cases, surgery.
© Copyright 1998 The Washington Post Company |
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