BMI

BMI stands for Body Mass Index. It gives you a rough idea of whether you are overweight, underweight or an ideal weight for your height. This information can be a useful tool to understanding your body and as your weight increases or decreases outside of the ‘ideal range’ health risks may also increase.

How to use the calculator

Select your gender and the body type that fits your current profile. You can use the sliders to enter your height and weight, alternatively enter them into the boxes below the sliders, (height is in feet and inches, weight is in pounds). This will give you a BMI score. (see below for more details)

How accurate is BMI

BMI can be a useful tool for measurement although it is only a guideline, results are based on adults who are over the age of 18 years. There are a few limitations with the any BMI calcualator, for example, adults who have very athletic builds can show as overweight or even obese. Remember that the BMI calculator can not differentiate between what is muscle and what is fat. This scale does not apply to women who are pregnant.

BMI Calculator

The chart most commonly used today follows these BMI scores
•Underweight = ‹18
•Normal weight = 18–24.9
•Overweight = 25–29.9
•Obesity = BMI of 30 or greater

So what does this mean for you?

Underweight – ‹18.0

It’s important to avoid being underweight especially as you get older. Being underweight can affect your ability to fight infection and recover from illness. It can also weaken your muscles – including your heart.
Talk to your GP If you’re starting to lose weight without trying. This is to make sure there aren’t any other problems causing the weight loss.

Healthy weight range – 18 – 24.5

You are a healthy weight for your height. Aim to keep within the ideal weight range by eating a healthy, well-balanced diet and taking regular exercise. The minimum level of physical activity recommended for adults is 30 minutes a day, three to five days a week.

Overweight – 25 – 29.9

Being overweight increases your risk of developing coronary heart disease, as well as other health conditions such as diabetes. Keeping to a healthy weight will help you control your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Aim to increase activity levels and avoid excess calories.

Obese – 30+

As your BMI increases, your risk of developing coronary heart disease, diabetes and some cancers increases. It is important that you take steps to reduce your weight. The good news is that even losing small amounts of weight can benefit your health. Aim to increase asctivity levels and try to consume fewer calories.

If your BMI is over 35, see your GP or health care professional – they can advise you on additional options available to support you with losing weight.

The results gained from this BMI calculator are for guideline purposes only, if you require more specific and accurate information, see your GP or your healthcare professional.