BMI Calculator

The Body Mass Index (BMI) is one of the most widely used screening tools for assessing weight categories. By using a simple calculation based on your height and weight, it provides a numeric value that places you into categories such as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.

While BMI is not a direct measure of body fat—it doesn't distinguish between muscle mass and fat tissue—it correlates well with direct measures of body fat for most people. Health professionals use it as a starting point to identify potential health risks associated with weight.

What Does Your BMI Score Mean?

Your BMI result helps you understand where you stand in terms of general health guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO):

• Underweight (BMI < 18.5): Being underweight might indicate malnutrition, eating disorders, or other underlying health issues. It's recommended to consult a doctor to ensure you are getting enough nutrients.
• Normal Weight (BMI 18.5 – 24.9): This range is associated with the lowest health risk. Maintaining a weight in this range serves as a good defense against weight-related diseases.
• Overweight (BMI 25 – 29.9): This range indicates a body weight higher than what is considered healthy for a given height. It is a signal to adopt healthier eating habits and increase physical activity to prevent moving into the obese category.
• Obese (BMI ≥ 30): Obesity is linked to a significantly higher risk of chronic conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.

Limitations of BMI

It is important to remember that BMI is a simple tool and has its limitations:

• Muscle Mass: Athletes and bodybuilders may have a high BMI because muscle is denser than fat. In this case, a high BMI does not necessarily mean they are unhealthy.
• Age & Gender: Women tend to have more body fat than men, and older adults tend to have more body fat than younger adults, even if they have the same BMI.
• Distribution of Fat: BMI does not account for where fat is stored. Abdominal fat (visceral fat) is generally more harmful to your health than fat stored in the hips or thighs.

BMI Categories Chart

The standard weight status categories associated with BMI ranges for adults are shown in the following table: