Fat Mass Index

Similar to Lean Mass Index (LMI), FMI focuses on a specific component of your body composition: fat mass. By understanding your FMI, you gain a deeper understanding of how much fat your body carries relative to your height.

FMI is typically calculated using your fat mass (in kilograms) and height squared (in meters squared):

• FMI = Fat Mass (kg) / Height^2 (m^2)

Interpreting FMI:

• Like LMI, there's no single ideal FMI universally applicable. Ranges may vary based on factors like sex, age, and ethnicity.
• However, generally, higher FMI values (above 6 for men, above 5 for women) may indicate a higher proportion of body fat, potentially increasing the risk of:
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Certain cancers
  • Metabolic syndrome
• Lower FMI values (below 3 for men, below 2 for women) might suggest lower body fat percentage, but don't necessarily guarantee optimal health.

Important points to remember:

• FMI is not a diagnostic tool and should be interpreted alongside other health assessments and your doctor's guidance.
• Fat distribution, not just total fat mass, matters. FMI doesn't differentiate between subcutaneous fat and potentially harmful visceral fat stored around organs.
• Consider FMI as one piece of the puzzle alongside other metrics like waist circumference and seek professional advice for personalized interpretations and health goals.