BMI or Body Mass Index is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in metres squared. Remember - it is only a basic guide (which does not take account of your body composition). If you are very sporty or muscular you may find that you fall into the 'overweight' classification on this BMI calculator for Women (as muscle weighs more than fat), when in fact you are healthy and have very little body fat. Also BMI is not accurate for people who are frail due to illness and muscle loss, or pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Your BMI calculation vrs recommended BMI chart
The BMI weight ranges, as set out by the World Health Organisation (WHO), are outlined below.
If your BMI is less than 18.4, you are underweight for your height.
If your BMI is between 18.5 - 24.9, you are an ideal weight for your height.
If your BMI is between 25 - 29.9, you are overweight for your height.
If your BMI is between 30 - 39.9, you are obese
If your BMI is over 40, you are very obese.
What can I do to improve my BMI?
If your BMI calculation is over 25, then losing weight would significantly improve your health. One of the most successful ways to manage your diet and lose weight is to keep a food diary.
Nutracheck offers an online food diary service, where we take your BMI figure and other details, and work out how many calories you need to eat each day in order to lose weight. We put your BMI and personal targets into your food diary - all you do is start recording what you eat and drink.
It's free to try this with our 7 day no obligation trial.