Maintaining a healthy BMI can protect your health and even see you enjoying lower life insurance premiums.
World Health Day, celebrated on the 7th of April, is the perfect time to focus on one of the easiest ways to keep tabs on your health - checking your Body Mass Index (BMI). In South Africa, a country full of delicious food, be it a big plate of pap and wors or your ouma’s legendary peppermint crisp tart, maintaining a healthy weight can sometimes take a backseat. However, understanding your BMI can help you strike a balance between enjoying your favourite meals and making smart health choices. It also plays a role in things like life insurance eligibility.
What is BMI?
BMI is a simple measurement that helps assess whether your weight is within a healthy range for your height. It’s calculated using this formula:
BMI = weight (kg) / height² (m²)
To calculate Your BMI, step onto a scale to check your weight in kilograms. Next, use a measuring tape to find your height in meters. You can then apply the formula by dividing your weight by the square of your height.
Math not your thing? Use our quick and easy BMI calculator instead for a quick result.
Understand Your Score
Wondering where your result puts you on the scale? Compare your BMI with these standard categories:
Underweight: BMI below 18.5
Normal weight: BMI 18.5 – 24.9
Overweight: BMI 25 – 29.9
Obese: BMI 30 and above
Why BMI Matters for Your Health
Maintaining a healthy BMI can help reduce the risk of various chronic conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and even certain cancers. According to the Global Nutrition Report, 42.9% of women and 18.2% of men in South Africa are living with obesity.
Excess weight can put additional strain on your joints, leading to mobility issues, while also increasing the likelihood of metabolic disorders. On the flip side, being underweight can compromise your immune system and lead to nutritional deficiencies. By making smarter choices around diet, exercise, and lifestyle, you can work towards a healthy weight that keeps you feeling strong, energized and in control of your health.
How BMI Affects Life Insurance Eligibility
Many life insurance providers, including MiWayLife, consider BMI when assessing applications. A BMI outside the healthy range may result in higher premiums due to potential health risks. Also, extremely high or low BMI levels could impact your eligibility for life insurance. Some insurers might also require medical exams or add exclusions for those with BMI-related health concerns such as diabetes.
The Bottom Line
This World Health Day, check in with your body by calculating your BMI and assessing how you feel overall. Small, consistent steps toward a healthier lifestyle can pay off in so many ways, not only by boosting your health but by helping you secure lower life insurance premiums.
Did you know:
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