Normal weight is a very important indicator for every person. With this parameter, he will feel as comfortable as possible, there will not be an extra load on the heart and other important organs. Unfortunately, at present, not all people can boast of normal weight. That is why a special indicator was developed - body mass index for children. It allows you to determine the initial stage of obesity or dystrophy in order to avoid further problems.
How to calculate BMI yourself
An indicator such as a body mass index for children can simply be calculated on its own. To do this, use the Ketele formula.
- First of all, it is worth measuring the basic parameters of the child: height and weight.
- Next, you will need to divide the weight indicator, measured in kilograms, by twice the growth rate, measured in meters.
- If everything is done correctly, you get a two-digit numerical value.
For example, you need to determine the body mass index for a child up to a year. His height will be equal to 75 centimeters, with a weight of 8 kilograms. Thus, 8 needs to be divided by 0.56. After simple arithmetic operations, a digital value of 14.2 will be obtained. This parameter is the main one by which BMI is determined.
Key BMI indicators
The main indicator of body mass index for children is identified. What to do with it further? It is necessary to compare the obtained digital value with the main indicators and determine what border the child’s weight falls under:
- If the BMI is less than 16, then the child has a significant lack of weight. If urgent measures are not taken, then there will be a risk of anorexia.
- If the result of the calculation is a number up to 18.5, then rejoice ahead of time is also not worth it. Such an indicator suggests that the child is also underweight, but this is not as dangerous for his body as the previous stage.
- A child is absolutely healthy if his BMI falls within the range of 18.5 to 25.
- Indicators in excess of 25 indicate overweight. The most optimal value from 25 to 30 is a slight fullness, which can cause discomfort. You can eliminate it yourself, observing proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. Above 30 is obesity (up to 35 first degree, up to 40 second degree, above 40 third degree). All these stages cause a huge risk to the health of the child, you need to contact an experienced specialist and take measures to solve this problem.
For an adult, these indicators are slightly different, they have a higher border. The calculation of body mass index in children under one year of age is carried out similarly. However, the border of the indicators of normal weight for them is from 13 to 21. In the above example, the number 14.2 was obtained. This means that the child is healthy.
The easiest way to calculate
If you have internet at home, you can calculate your body mass index for children in just a few minutes. To do this, you need to find any calculator you like online. Enter the child’s age, gender, height and weight in the appropriate lines. Further, the computer program will independently calculate the BMI indicator and determine if there is a threat to its health.
What to do if overweight or underweight is detected
If, as a result of simple studies, it was found that the BMI of the child is slightly behind the border, then there is no need to consult a doctor. You can independently change his diet, start doing exercises and lead a healthy lifestyle. If the border is noticeably behind the norm, then a number of specialists should be visited. The therapist will suggest taking the necessary tests to determine if there are any abnormalities in the body, if necessary, he will prescribe the necessary vitamins. A nutritionist will create a schedule of proper nutrition. With insufficient weight, you will need to focus on the most useful substances, especially protein. If you are overweight, you need to focus on plant foods filled with healthy minerals. It is also recommended that you contact a professional trainer who will help you create a schedule for the right workouts.
The norms of the body mass index in children are a very important indicator developed by figures in the field of world medicine. Thanks to them, you can independently identify a problem related to health at an early stage of its development and take measures to eliminate it.