More Than A Number
On June 14th, 2023, the American Medical Association (AMA) publicly adopted a new policy stating that using Body Mass Index (BMI) alone is an imperfect measure of overall health. Something many have been touting for years. BMI is a simplistic measurement that uses weight and height to categorize individuals into broad ranges. This oversimplification can lead to unrealistic expectations and comparisons, especially in a society that values thinness.
Placing too much emphasis on BMI as a measure of health can lead to a narrow focus on weight loss rather than overall well-being. This narrow focus may promote unhealthy behaviors, such as crash dieting, severe food restriction, and excessive exercise, which can negatively impact physical and mental health. It is essential to recognize that individual health and body image are complex and multifaceted, and should not be solely determined by a single measurement like BMI.
When people perceive their BMI score as high, they may develop negative body image perceptions, feeling dissatisfied and shame. This dissatisfaction and shame can contribute to lower self-esteem, a negative self-image, and in severe cases, eating disorders, and body dysmorphia. Per a meta-analysis by Melody Fulton and Vijay N. Srinivasan, “Medical professionals, including physicians, dietitians, nurses, and medical students, have been found to display both explicit and implicit bias towards overweight and obese individuals.”[1]
BMI doesn't account for variations in body composition, individual differences, or cultural norms. It doesn't consider factors like muscle mass, bone density, or body fat distribution. For example, individuals with higher muscle mass, such as athletes or weightlifters, may be classified as overweight or obese according to their BMI, despite being physically fit.
If you or someone you know is experiencing an eating disorder or body dysmorphia, please seek help from a licensed physician or mental health professional. For more information on eating disorders, peer support, or referrals for treatment, visit www.anad.org. ANAD’s free Eating Disorders Helpline provides support and encouragement and answers questions about eating disorders and how to seek treatment.
For additional reading, check out “When Hiding Is No Longer an Option: Recovering From an Eating Disorder” by Psychologist Dr. Dana Udal. Ph.D.
Remember that no one thing, measure, belief, or opinion defines who you are.
Coach T
Fulton, M., Srinivasan, V. Obesity, Stigma And Discrimination. 2033 Mar. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554571/