Difference Between BMI and Body Fat

BMI vs Body Fat

BMI is the abbreviation for Body Mass Index, and it is used to indicate the overall fat content of a person’s body. A person’s BMI is not necessarily used to determine one’s general health in terms of good or bad, nor the actual amount of body fat contained. Body fat, on the other hand, plays a pivotal role in the maintenance of one’s body. The quantity of body fat and its distribution may indicate possible favorable and adverse health effects. The body fat content will determine if a person is obese, or overweight.

A person’s BMI is measured by dividing the weight of the body by the height of the particular person. In this calculation, the person’s weight is compared to their height. The BMI is shown in percentages. If the BMI calculation indicates that it is less than 5 percent, the person may be considered as underweight. Likewise, if the BMI is over 95 percent, the person may be considered as obese. Should the BMI of a person drops below a certain level (18), there could be a risk of premature death.

Body fat is an important structural component of the body, for example, the fat that is stored in the organs of the body constitutes for about 4% of the body’s weight. This fat is an important factor for the proper functioning of these organs. Having too little body fat is considered to be unhealthy, and can cause serious health issues. The levels of body fat is also dependent on one’s gender and age. For instance, the fat content is mainly stored in the thighs and buttocks of females, while for males, it is mostly stored around the waist area.

Research has shown that women who have a waist size of more than 30 inches have a higher risk of diabetic problems and other heart ailments. Likewise, women who have a BMI of 25 or less, and who have less overall fat content, are less prone to diseases.

Summary:

1.Body Mass Index (BMI) is measured by dividing the weight of the body by the height of the particular person.

2.The BMI is limited in determining the general health of a person, whereas body fat plays an important role in determining possible health hazards.

3.A person’s BMI should be maintained at a certain level, but healthy level of body fat often depends on a person’s age and gender.

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