What is BMI?

The body mass index (BMI) is a way to determine the amount of fat on your body.  If your BMI is too high, you could be overweight. If your BMI is too low, you may lack proper nourishment.

For adult men and women, a healthy BMI is between 19 and 26. A BMI of 27 to 30 is considered overweight, and obesity is classified as a BMI of 30 or higher. If your BMI is below 19, you may be ill or at risk for problems such as osteoporosis.

BMI values do not apply to competitive athletes, body builders, pregnant or nursing women, and frail or sedentary elderly people.

If you think your BMI results do not accurately reflect your body fat level, tell your doctor about your results and ask for a body fat test.
Body Mass Index
  • Although the BMI is useful in creating guidelines for healthy adults (ages 20 to 65 years), it does not apply to infants, children , adolescents, pregnant or breastfeeding women and adults over 65 years of age.
  • Exceptions to a high BMI also include competitive athletes and body builders, whose BMI is high due to increased muscle mass.
  • The instructions and advice presented are in no way intended as a substitute for medical counseling.
  • This tool should be used in conjunction with the Waist Circumference Calculator to see whether you’re at risk.