Are You at a Healthy Weight?
The BMI ranges for adults are shown in this chart. They are not exact ranges of healthy and unhealthy weights. However, they show that health risk increases at higher levels of overweight and obesity. Even within the healthy BMI range, weight gains can carry health risks for adults.
The chart shows heights (without shoes) ranging from 4 feet 10 inches to 6 feet 6 inches on one axis, and weights (without clothes) from 50 pounds to 275 pounds on the other axis. The range of Body Mass Index (BMI) from 18.5 to 30 is shown on the chart so that if you find the point where your height and weight intersect you can determine your BMI.
- Healthy Weight: BMI from 18.5 up to 25 refers to healthy weight.
- Overweight: BMI from 25 up to 30 refers to overweight.
- Obese: BMI 30 or higher refers to obesity. Obese persons are also overweight.
You can more simply use the interactive BMI calculator at www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/bmicalc.htm.
(Source: Report of the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2000.)