BMI Calculator Enter your weight in pounds and your height in inches
in the form below and press the "Compute" button
Your Weight (lbs)
Your Height (inches)
Your BMI
Where
does Your BMI Fall?
BMI
Risk for Weight
Related Health Problems
20 - 25
Very Low Risk
26 - 30
Low Risk
31 - 35
Moderate Risk
36 - 40
High Risk
40 +
Very High Risk
Body Mass Index (BMI)
is one of the most accurate ways to determine when extra pounds
put your health at risk. Experts use BMI as a measure for
"healthy weight" because people with a higher percentage
of body fat tend to have a higher BMI. BMI is defined as body weight (in kilograms)
divided by height (in meters squared). A BMI score of 20 - 25 is associated with the lowest
health risk based solely on BMI scores. A BMI of 25 or greater is
considered overweight. A BMI of 30 or greater is considered
obese, and a BMI of 40 or greater is considered extremely obese.
BMI scores are inaccurate for athletes and body builders, whose BMI is high
due to increased muscle mass, and women who are pregnant or
lactating. The BMI is also not intended for use in measuring growing
children or elderly individuals. Link to a printable BMI chart
at theNational Institutes of Health.
The higher the BMI,
the greater the risk of developing health problems such as:
Heart Disease
Hyperlipidemia
(High cholesterol)
Diabetes
Stroke
Gallbladder Disease
Some Cancers
Sleep Apnea
Hypertension (High
Blood Pressure
Osteoarthritis
Increased Risk of
Death
In addition to BMI, a
waist circumference of greater than 35 inches for women and 40
inches for men is considered a risk factor for these health
problems. Weight carried in the lower body is less risky.
Health experts agree
that those who are overweight but have no other health risk factors
(such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure) should eat
healthier and exercise to prevent additional weight gain.. For
individuals who are overweight and have additional risk factors,
experts recommend actively trying to lose weight. Before starting
any exercise or weight loss program, be sure to consult your doctor
or other health professional.
For additional
calculators, Nutrawize recommends visiting this
link.