The body mass index formula is an equation based on body weight adjusted for height. It is mostly used by doctors to diagnose patients that are overweight or obese. Its primary purpose is to provide an estimation of body fat percentage in relation to an individuals height and weight. It's not, however a completely accurate assessment and many health professionals will agree.
You need to take into consideration peoples overall body composition and age. For instance, muscular people will have a higher body mass index than those that have less muscle, such as the elderly. When two people have the same body mass index it does not necessarily mean that they have the same body fat percentage. For example, men generally will have a lower body fat percentage than women.
Knowing that the body mass index formula does not measure body fat percentage should help you in assessing the state of your obese child's health.
Body Fat Percentage - The Big Picture
It's first helpful to know what percentage of your obese child's total weight is comprised of fat. There are several methods available of doing this. However, it is worth noting that if you already know the body fat percentage of your child is higher than it should be then proper nutrition and exercise is the best solution. For those who are curious here are a few examples.
Hydrostatic Weighing
Also known as underwater weighing. This is by far the most accurate means to calculate fat percentage but it can be rather expensive and is not something that can be done at home. This method is performed by being totally submerged in water. Knowing that fat is less dense than muscle and bones it is fairly easy to calculate the fat percentage.
Body Fat Calipers
This is a much more affordable alternative and is readily available. Use the calipers to take a pinch of skin and record the measurements. This is usually done at several different locations of your body and it is recommended to use the same location when you check on your progress. You then use the body mass index formula to determine the body fat percentage. If you plan on using this method my advice is not to purchase the cheap calipers they are not very accurate.
Bioelectrical Impedence Analysis or BIA
This method uses body fat scales that send a safe small electrical current through the body to calculate the amount of body fat tissue. Your body fat percentage is then calculated based on height, weight, age and sex. It is a harmless method and fairly accurate. These scales are available in the marketplace and reasonably priced.
The Final Analysis
Helping your child overcome obesity is a challenge. Sometimes it is best to have some facts and figures enabling them to compare their overall progress.
The starting point would be to first know what their ideal weight should be. This way they have a goal to reach. At first it may appear to be an unattainable goal so you need to offer encouragement and even volunteer to participate.
Design a chart that you can use to record the body mass index formula results in and set a schedule for checking on their progress. Maybe even set up a file on the computer to keep track of their progress.
Or perhaps you are unhappy with the results and need some help. You are not alone in feeling this way sometimes the hardest thing to do is to ask. We are all built differently and our needs differ as well. If you find yourself in this situation feel free to contact us for answers to your questions and ideas on how to solve the problem.
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