What your body weight says about your health
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is one of the best-known indicators for assessing body weight in relation to height. It is used worldwide in medical practice to quickly determine whether someone is of normal weight, underweight, or overweight.
Especially for men, BMI can be an initial indicator of whether they have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, testosterone deficiency, or metabolic disorders . While it doesn't reflect all aspects of body composition, BMI offers an easily accessible guide – ideal for health-conscious individuals who want to check their status.
What is the Body Mass Index?
BMI is calculated from the ratio of body weight to height squared. The formula is:
BMI = Body weight (kg) / (Height in m)²
For example, a man who weighs 85 kilograms and is 1.80 meters tall has a BMI of 26.2 – which is considered “slightly overweight” according to the WHO.
👉 Calculate your BMI now: BMI calculator
What BMI values are considered normal?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has established the following BMI classifications:
- Underweight: Below 18.5
- Normal weight: 18.5 to 24.9
- Overweight (pre-obesity): 25 to 29.9
- Obesity grade I: 30 to 34.9
- Obesity grade II: 35 to 39.9
- Grade III obesity: From age 40
What is the significance of BMI in men?
The BMI roughly indicates how much body mass a person has in relation to their height. It is particularly helpful for men when it comes to the prevention of chronic diseases.
However, the BMI also has weaknesses: it does not distinguish between fat and muscle mass. A muscular man can therefore be incorrectly classified as overweight. For this reason, additional parameters should be considered.
Important additional measurements:
- Waist circumference (ideally under 94 cm for men)
- Waist-to-hip ratio
- Body fat percentage (measured by bioimpedance or caliper)
- Visceral fat (fat in the abdominal cavity, particularly hormonally active)
Abdominal fat is particularly critical, as it promotes inflammation and can negatively affect testosterone levels.
What health risks are associated with an elevated BMI?
A persistently elevated BMI (25 and above) can promote the development of the following diseases:
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Lipid metabolism disorders
- Atherosclerosis
- Testosterone deficiency
- Sleep apnea
- Joint problems
A BMI over 30 significantly increases the risk of erectile dysfunction, often as a result of narrowed blood vessels, hormonal changes, or chronic inflammation.
What should men consider regarding their BMI?
BMI is a good indicator, but should not be considered in isolation . Especially in athletic men, a high BMI can be associated with a low body fat percentage.
The combination of the following is important:
- BMI + waist circumference
- Body fat percentage + fitness level
- Hormone status (e.g. testosterone, insulin, cortisol)
Men with a high BMI and simultaneous energy loss, loss of libido or mood swings should have their hormone levels tested in a laboratory .
Conclusion: BMI as a starting point, not as the sole measure
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is an easy-to-use tool for initial orientation, but not a complete diagnostic instrument. For men focusing on vitality, hormones, and long-term health, the BMI should be combined with other measurements.
