BMI Calculator – How to calculate your BMI

How is BMI Calculated?

BMI is divided into four main categories: obese, overweight, average, and underweight. Some BMI calculators include subcategories like severely underweight, pre-obese, or severely obese.

What is BMI?

Body mass index (BMI) measures the amount of tissue in your body. Your scale weight alone isn't necessarily an indicator of your overall health. BMI considers your height and age to determine better how your body contributes to your health.

BMI Scores for Adults

The World Health Organization (WHO) values each BMI category differently. For men and women above the age of 20, BMI values are as follows::

• Severe Thinness: Below 16
• Moderate Thinness: 16 to 17
• Mild Thinness: 17 to 18.5
• Average: 18.5 to 25
• Overweight: 25 to 30
• Obese Class I: 30 to 35
• Obese Class II: 35 to 40
• Obese Class III: Over 40

Check where you place on the BMI chart for an easy visual reference for your health.

Health Risks Associated With Being Outside a Healthy BMI Range

You could be at an elevated risk for many diseases if you're outside a healthy BMI range. Common ailments you may be at risk of include:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Malnutrition
• General body pain
• Gallbladder disease
• Osteoarthritis
• Some types of cancer
• High cholesterol
• Sleep apnea

Consult a medical professional if you want to lose weight to become healthier or feel like you need to gain weight to reach a higher BMI. They can inform you if your BMI number is anything to worry about. They can also safely advise you on gaining or losing weight without adverse health effects.

The Limits of BMI Calculators

BMI can provide more insight into your health than a simple number from the scale can. However, your lifestyle will need to be considered when evaluating the number. Your BMI may be higher or lower than average if you're a weightlifter or highly athletic. While BMI numbers generally correspond with their respective health categories, these may not apply if you lead an incredibly active lifestyle.

People also have body types that lead to measurements that defy the typical BMI scale. However, for these kinds of people, a BMI score that is higher or lower than average might not indicate poor health. That makes using a BMI score as a reference point, not an absolute rule, essential.

Additionally, your BMI is not your health's beginning and end point. You could have a normal BMI and still face health problems you're unaware of. However, any sudden changes to your BMI can provide insight into underlying health conditions that must be addressed.