Georgia Virtual School (GAVS) Health Exam

Which metrics can help assess whether your weight is healthy?

1. Body mass index and skinfold measurement

2. Body mass index and body composition

3. Height and weight chart

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: Body mass index and body composition

Body mass index (BMI) and body composition are both valuable metrics for assessing whether a person's weight is healthy. BMI is a widely used screening tool that calculates weight in relation to height, providing a useful indicator of whether an individual is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. However, it does not account for distribution of muscle and fat, which is where body composition comes into play. Body composition analysis gives a more detailed understanding of what makes up a person's weight. It distinguishes between fat mass and lean mass, providing insights into muscle mass, fat mass, and overall health. For instance, someone may have a normal BMI but still have a higher body fat percentage, which can lead to health risks. Thus, when these two metrics are used together, they provide a more comprehensive assessment of healthy weight beyond just numbers on a scale. This combination allows individuals to better understand their health risks and the effectiveness of their fitness and dietary plans.