BMI Calculator
Calculate your Body Mass Index and see your category under WHO and Asian guidelines.
How to use the BMI
- Choose kg/cm or lb/feet.
- Enter your weight and height.
- Read your BMI, both categories and your healthy weight range.
What BMI tells you
Body Mass Index is weight in kilograms divided by height in metres squared. It’s a quick screening number that relates weight to height. A person 170 cm tall weighing 70 kg has a BMI of about 24.2.
WHO vs Indian categories
| Category | WHO (global) | Indian guideline |
|---|---|---|
| Underweight | below 18.5 | below 18.5 |
| Normal | 18.5–24.9 | 18.5–22.9 |
| Overweight | 25–29.9 | 23–24.9 |
| Obese | 30 and above | 25 and above |
Research shows Asian Indians tend to have more body fat and higher risk of diabetes and heart disease at a lower BMI than Europeans. Indian consensus guidelines therefore use lower cut-offs. The calculator shows both, so a BMI of 24 is “normal” by WHO but “overweight” by the Indian guideline.
Limitations of BMI
- It doesn’t distinguish muscle from fat; athletes may show as “overweight”.
- It doesn’t show where fat is stored. Waist size matters: a waist above about 90 cm in men and 80 cm in women is a risk marker for Asian Indians.
- It isn’t designed for children, pregnant women or older adults with muscle loss.
Healthy weight range
The result shows the weight range that would put you in the Indian “normal” band for your height. Aim for gradual, sustainable change through diet, activity and sleep.
Important
This is general information, not medical advice. Please talk to a doctor or registered dietitian about your health. For hydration, see the water intake calculator.
Examples
- 160 cm, 55 kg: BMI 21.5, normal under both guidelines.
- 170 cm, 70 kg: BMI 24.2, normal by WHO but overweight by the Indian guideline.
- 175 cm, 85 kg: BMI 27.8, overweight by WHO and obese by the Indian guideline.
Use these as illustrations; your doctor will consider your overall health, not just BMI.
Children and teenagers should use growth charts instead. Pregnant women should also not rely on BMI.
Frequently asked questions
What is a healthy BMI for Indians?
How is BMI calculated?
Is BMI accurate for athletes?
Can children use this calculator?
Is this medical advice?
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