Take charge of your health today! This free and easy-to-use calculator allows you to determine your Body Mass Index (BMI) in just a few seconds.
Body Mass Index (BMI) Calculator
Body mass index (BMI) is a tool that can be used to estimate how much body fat a person has by measuring the ratio of your height to your weight. In order to use the tool accurately, you will need to know your weight in kilograms and your height in meters.
What is BMI used for?
BMI is a commonly used tool to identify if an adult is underweight, the normal weight, overweight or obese. Excess body fat can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and Type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, having too little body fat can be a sign of malnutrition. The right amount of body fat is essential for absorbing vitamins and minerals, supplying energy, regulating body temperature, and safeguarding your organs.
It is important to note that BMI alone does not diagnose overweight or obesity as several factors can affect your weight. For example, BMI cannot tell the difference between fat and muscle. However, it can be a useful tool to help you start a conversation with your doctor about your weight and health.
How to calculate your BMI
BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms (kg) by your height in meters (m) squared. You can use the calculator below to enter your weight and height, and it will calculate your BMI for you.
Your BMI range: —
What does your BMI result mean?
In general, the following BMI ranges (in kg/m2) classify different weight types:
- Underweight: Less than 18.5.
- Optimum range: 18.5 to 24.9.
- Overweight: 25 to 29.9.
- Class I obesity: 30 to 34.9.
- Class II obesity: 35 to 39.9.
- Class III obesity: More than 40.
What should I do if my BMI is not in the healthy range?
If your BMI suggests that you are either underweight or overweight, remember that this tool is not a substitute for medical diagnosis. The next step would be to book an appointment with a doctor.
In general, the higher a person’s BMI, the higher their risk of having any or several of these conditions:
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- Depression
- Gallstones
- Osteoarthritis
- Certain cancers
- Sleep apnea
Please note that having a high BMI does not necessarily mean you will have any of these conditions. Similarly, it is also possible to have normal weight and still have chronic medical conditions including those on this list.Â
It is also important to note that other things can predispose you to any of these conditions including genetics and lifestyle habits like smoking. For example, Africans and Asians have higher chances of these conditions even with lower BMI.
When last did you see a doctor?
If you are overweight, underweight, obese or over the age of 35, it is important to see a doctor and have a blood test to rule out any of these conditions. CareValue Health will not only help you diagnose any conditions, but we also have specialists in cardiology, internal medicine, mental health and more that will give you the help and support you need.
