BMI Calculator
BMI is one of the factors a clinician weighs for GLP-1 treatment, but only one. Height and weight, nothing else.
Calculate your BMI
Body mass index = weight ÷ height². Clinicians use it alongside history and other factors.
For information only, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Only a licensed provider can determine whether treatment is appropriate for you.
Disclaimer: BMI is one factor among many. It can't distinguish muscle from fat, so it may misread athletes, older adults, pregnant women and some ethnicities. It also can't tell you whether you're eligible for any NiceRx treatment. Only a licensed provider can, after reviewing your health history.
What is BMI?
Body Mass Index is your weight relative to your height, expressed as a single number. It places you in one of four ranges (underweight, healthy weight, overweight or obesity) and is one of the screening measures a clinician looks at, alongside your history, waist size and other factors.
It was developed in the 1830s by the Belgian statistician Adolphe Quetelet to describe populations, not individuals, which is why it has limits: it doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density or where fat sits on the body.
How to calculate BMI
Divide your weight in pounds by your height in inches squared, then multiply by 703.
- Measure your weight in pounds.
- Measure your height in inches.
- Square your height (height × height).
- Divide your weight by that number.
- Multiply by 703.
- Read the result against the BMI categories.
What your BMI means
| Range | Category |
|---|---|
| Below 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5-24.9 | Healthy weight |
| 25-29.9 | Overweight |
| 30 and above | Obesity |
BMI's limitations
- Doesn't separate muscle from fat. A strength athlete can read as "overweight".
- Doesn't show where fat is carried; waist-to-hip ratio does.
- Ranges were set on populations, not tuned to every ethnicity or age group.
BMI is a screening number, not a diagnosis. Use it to start a conversation, not end one.
Frequently asked questions
Is BMI an accurate measure of health?
BMI is a rough measure of health, but it doesn't account for factors like muscle, bone structure, or fat distribution, so it isn't always an accurate measure of health.
Can BMI be used for children and teenagers?
Yes, BMI can be used for children and teenagers, but it is interpreted differently based on age and sex.
How often should I check my BMI?
You can check your BMI every few months or once a year, depending on your health goals and any changes in your lifestyle.
What should I do if my BMI is in the overweight or obese category?
If your BMI is in the overweight or obese category, it's a good idea to talk to a doctor about a healthy eating plan and regular exercise.
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