Distribution of body mass index [BMI] among individuals of safravi and balghami temperatment

ABSTRACT

Determination of temperament [tashkhees-e-mizaj], in Unani System of Medicine, is done on the basis of certain morphological, physiological and psychological features. Muscles and Fat [Lahm wa Shahm] and Physique [Haiyat-e-aza] are important parameters amongst the ten determinants of temperament. These parameters need interpretations and explanations in terms of modern science. Body Mass Index [BMI] provides an index of weight relative to height. As per Unani classical literatures, Safravi individuals are lean and thin while Balghami individuals are fatty and obese. They possess temperament [mizaj] and other characteristics different from each other. In this study, Body Mass Index [BMI] was calculated in 148 healthy individuals having Safravi and Balghami temperament. Volunteers having their BMI 30 or more were considered obese and excluded from the study. The Balghami individuals had significantly higher Body Mass Index [BMI] than the Safravi individuals. The mean value of BMI in Safravi and Balghami volunteers were found to be 19.8 +/- 1.8 and 23.1 +/- 1.9 respectively