BMI Classification Chart

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a standard reference widely used around the world to assess general health based on height and weight.

Category	BMI Range (kg/m²)	Health Status
Underweight	< 18.5	Risk of malnutrition
Normal weight	18.5 - 24.9	Low Risk (Healthy)
Overweight	25 - 29.9	Increased Risk
Obesity (Class I)	30 - 34.9	High Risk
Obesity (Class II+)	≥ 35	Very High Risk

Health Risks of Abnormal BMI

Maintaining a healthy BMI is about more than just appearance; it's crucial for preventing chronic disease.

High BMI (Overweight) Risks

•Cardiovascular diseases (Heart disease, Stroke)
•High blood pressure & High cholesterol
•Type 2 Diabetes
•Breathing issues (Sleep Apnea)
•Joint pain (Osteoarthritis)

Low BMI (Underweight) Risks

•Malnutrition & Vitamin deficiencies
•Compromised immune system
•Osteoporosis (Bone weakness)
•Fertility issues
•Anemia

Limitations: Who should not use BMI?

BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnostic one. It does not measure body fat directly. It may be inaccurate for:

Athletes & Bodybuilders: High muscle mass can result in a high BMI, which does not indicate obesity or poor health.
The Elderly: Loss of muscle mass with age may mask excess body fat, even at a "normal" BMI.
Pregnant Women: Weight gain during pregnancy is necessary and normal BMI charts do not apply.
Children & Teens: They are growing rapidly. Use BMI-for-age growth charts assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is BMI the only health indicator?

No. Waist circumference, body fat percentage, blood pressure, and blood sugar are also critical. Regular check-ups are recommended.

Is the BMI interpretation same for everyone?

Generally yes, but some ethnic groups (e.g., Asians) may have higher health risks at lower BMI thresholds (e.g., BMI ≥ 23). Consult your doctor for personalized advice.

Is the BMI calculation different for men and women?

No, the formula is the same. However, women typically have more body fat than men at the same BMI level, which may impact health assessments.

What is the "ideal" BMI score?

While 18.5-24.9 is considered normal, studies suggest that people with a BMI between 20 and 22 often potentially have the best health outcomes.

I have a lot of muscle, why is my BMI high?

Muscle is denser than fat. For athletes, a high BMI often reflects muscle mass rather than excess body fat. Check your body fat percentage instead.

When is the best time to weigh myself?

In the morning. For the most consistent results, weigh yourself after waking up and using the bathroom, but before eating or getting dressed.

Why is my BMI high if I eat healthy?

Weight is affected by total calorie intake, metabolism, sleep, stress, and genetics. Even healthy foods can lead to weight gain if you eat too much of them.

What is a healthy rate of weight loss?

Experts recommend losing 0.5-1 kg (1-2 lbs) per week. Rapid weight loss often leads to muscle loss and is harder to maintain long-term.

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