BMI and its Classification

The Body Mass Index (BMI) is one measure used to define overweight and obesity. It generally reflects the amount of excessive body fat although there are certain exceptions, such as the BMI of a woman who is pregnant, an athlete, a body builder or the elderly.

BMI does not necessarily take into account a person’s distribution of fat (abdominal vs. peripheral) and is not a good measurement of the metabolic activity of a person’s fat tissue.

Candidates for bariatric surgery must have a body mass index (BMI) of at least 35 with weight-related conditions or a BMI greater than 40 without weight-related conditions. Candidates must also have tried unsuccessfully in the past to lose weight through diet and exercise.

BMI Calculator

BMI Requirements

Candidates for bariatric surgery must have a body mass index (BMI) of at least 35 with weight-related conditions or a BMI greater than 40 without weight-related conditions.

Height: *
Weight:

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Your Results:

Your BMI is , indicating your weight is in the  category for adults of your height.

For your height, a healthy weight range would be from to pounds.

People who are overweight or obese are at higher risk for chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

BMIWeight Status
Below 18.5Underweight
18.5—24.9Healthy
25.0—29.9Overweight
30.0 and aboveObese
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