BMI : Body Mass Index is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to both adult men and women.

While many weight loss initiatives used this lil’ number as a way to measure your status and /or progress of losing weight it does not take into account lean body mass.

This study clams to underestimate obesity: Medical News: BMI Underestimates Obesity in Young Women – in Primary Care, Obesity from MedPage Today

In another study:

Currently 23% of Americans are labeled obese by BMI

It also claims we are grossly underestimating the obesity epidemic.

I measured my BMI the other day… and apparently I’m considered overweight??!!

Don’t believe the hype folks. Don’t believe the hype.