Advisory

BMI

BMI stands for Body Mass Index, which is a simple and quick way to assess whether an individual's weight is within the normal range or if they are underweight, overweight, or obese. It is calculated as the ratio of body weight in kilograms to the square of height in meters. This indicator is important for assessing the risk of developing a range of health problems associated with being overweight and obesity, such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and others.

However, the BMI value is not absolute and should not be the sole indicator of an individual's health. It does not take into account differences in body composition, muscle mass, and fat stores. For example, athletes with a high proportion of muscle mass may have a high BMI without being overweight. Therefore, it is important to combine BMI with other measurements and evaluations, such as waist circumference measurement, assessment of dietary habits, and physical activity.

Hello,

What is your opinion on practicing intermittent fasting when underweight, where weight loss is undesirable? My BMI is on the borderline between underweight and normal, I like the benefits of intermittent fasting, but I don't want to lose weight. In this case, isn't fasting rather counterproductive?

Thank you.

Intermittent fasting is unfortunately often perceived as a weight-loss diet, which is misleading, because it depends on how you set your energy balance. The most commonly preferred 16/8 system allows for 3 meals during the feeding phase, which can be adjusted according to your own preferences - the balance can thus be negative, neutral, or even positive.

The fundamental advantage or benefit of intermittent fasting is its ability to increase metabolic flexibility, that is, the flexible capability to alternate between using carbohydrates and fats as energy sources. With a balanced energy intake, you will not lose weight...

Questions answered by

Mgr. Martin Jelinek
Lecturer and author of the educational system

Nutrition educator, lecturer, and author of the educational system and the ZOF learning application.

Mgr. Martin Jelínek has been systematically involved in nutrition education since 1999. He is the founder of ATAC, the educational company behind NutriCourses, and the author of an educational system focused on nutrition, healthy lifestyle, and the practical application of nutrition knowledge.

He graduated from the Faculty of Science at Masaryk University in Brno. Throughout his professional career, he has combined nutrition, education, and the practical application of acquired knowledge. His educational system also includes the ZOF (Zone of Optimal Functioning) learning application, where students turn theory into practical work with meal plans.

In 2007, he launched the first intake of a six-month course focused on the education of nutrition advisors. Over time, this course became the foundation for the further development of the educational system and a range of specialised courses.

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