The body mass index (BMI) is a measure that uses a persons height and weight to determine if their weight is healthy. BMI is calculated by dividing a persons weight in kilograms by their height in meters squared. For most adults, an ideal BMI is in the 18.5 to 24.9 range. The BMI ranges are as follows:
- Below 18.5: Underweight
- Between 18.5 and 24.9: Healthy weight
- Between 25 and 29.9: Overweight
- 30 or over: Obese
It is important to note that BMI is a screening measure and is not intended to diagnose disease or illness. BMI does not take into account body composition, such as muscle, fat, and bone density, and may not be a suitable measure for some people, including children and young people under 18, pregnant women, and athletes. Healthcare professionals may take other factors into account when assessing if a person is a healthy weight.
