What is the body mass index for children? How to calculate it correctly

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 unnecessary burden on the heart and other important organs. Unfortunately, at present not all people can boast of normal weight. That's why a special indicator was developed - the 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

This indicator, like the body mass index for children, is simple enough to calculate independently. To do this, use the Ketele formula.

• First of all it is necessary to measure the basic parameters of the child: height and weight.
• Further, it will be necessary to divide the weight index, measured in kilograms, by twice the growth rate measured in meters.
• If everything is done correctly, you will 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 75 centimeters, with a weight of 8 kilograms. Thus, 8 should be divided into 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 indicators of BMI

The main index of body mass index for children is revealed. What to do with it next? It is necessary to compare the obtained digital value with the main indicators and determine under which boundary the child's weight falls:

• If the BMI is less than 16, then the child has a significant underweight. If urgent measures are not taken, there is a risk of anorexia.
• If the result is a number of up to 18.5, then rejoice ahead of time is also not worth it. This indicator indicates that the child is also underweight, but this is not so dangerous for his body as the previous stage.
• Absolutely healthy child is if his BMI falls within the range of values from 18.5 to 25.
• Indicators exceeding the 25 mark indicate excess weight. The most optimal value from 25 to 30 is an easy 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 action to solve this problem.

For an adult, these indicators are slightly different, they have a higher limit. Calculation of body mass index in children under one year is similar. However, the limit of normal weight indicators for them is 13 to 21. In the above example, the number 14.2 was obtained. This means that the baby is healthy.

The easiest way to calculate

If the house has Internet, then calculate the body mass index for children can be in just a few minutes. To do this, you need to find any calculator you like online. In the appropriate lines, you must enter the child's age, sex, height and weight. Next, the computer program will independently calculate the BMI index and determine whether there is a threat to his health.

What to do if excess or underweight is determined

If as a result of simple studies it was revealed that the child's BMI is a little 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 lags far behind the norm, then a number of specialists should be visited. The therapist will offer to take the necessary tests, which will determine whether there are any irregularities in the body, if necessary, he will prescribe the necessary vitamins. A nutritionist will create a schedule of proper nutrition. With insufficient weight, it will be necessary to focus on the most useful substances, in particular, on protein. With excess weight, it is necessary to focus on plant foods filled with useful minerals. It is also recommended to contact a professional trainer who will help create a schedule of correct training.

The norms of body mass index in children are a very important indicator, developed by the figures in the field of world medicine. Thanks to them, you can independently identify the problem associated with health at an early stage of its development and take steps to eliminate it.