Why BMI is Mathematical Snake Oil

BMI has never been my preferred method for inferring a person’s body composition or indicating level of health. My BMI always leans on the heavy end and in the “overweight” category, which can frequently occur in fit, athletic individuals. Yes, BMI can offer a starting point and may be used as a general indicator of fatness or obesity, but there are several more accurate and precise methods for determining body composition as it relates to health.

Let the math guy from Weekend Edition logically explain the pitfalls of relying too heavily on BMI.