What is a healthy BMI range?

A healthy BMI range for adults is 18.5 to 24.9 according to the World Health Organization. BMI below 18.5 is considered underweight, 25 to 29.9 is overweight, and 30 or above is obese.

BMI is a useful screening tool but not perfect. It doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat mass, so athletes with high muscle mass may have a high BMI despite being healthy. For most people, BMI provides a reasonable estimate of body fat and health risks.

What is the BMI formula?

BMI is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared: BMI = weight (kg) / height (m)². In imperial units: BMI = (weight in pounds / height in inches²) × 703.

Is BMI different for men and women?

The BMI calculation formula is the same for men and women. However, women naturally have more body fat than men, so the same BMI may represent different body fat percentages. Despite this, the same BMI categories apply to both genders for health risk assessment.

Can I use BMI for children?

BMI for children and teens (ages 2-19) is calculated the same way but interpreted differently using age and gender-specific percentile charts. Children's BMI changes as they grow, so percentiles compared to other children of the same age and gender are used instead of fixed categories.

What should I do if my BMI is too high or too low?

If your BMI is outside the healthy range, consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian. They can assess your overall health, body composition, and recommend personalized diet and exercise plans. Don't make drastic changes without professional guidance.

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