BMI (Body Mass Index) is a quick screening number that compares your weight with your height. It is used by doctors and health programmes worldwide to flag possible underweight, overweight or obesity. For Indians, lower cut-offs are recommended, because at the same BMI, South Asians tend to have more body fat and a higher risk of diabetes and heart disease.
How to use the BMI calculator
- Enter your weight in kilograms.
- Enter your height in centimetres.
You will see your BMI, your category under the WHO scale and the Asian Indian scale, and the healthy weight range for your height.
BMI formula
BMI = Weight (kg) ÷ (Height (m) × Height (m))BMI categories
| BMI | WHO category | Asian Indian category |
|---|---|---|
| Below 18.5 | Underweight | Underweight |
| 18.5 – 22.9 | Normal | Normal |
| 23 – 24.9 | Normal | Overweight |
| 25 – 29.9 | Overweight | Obese |
| 30 and above | Obese | Obese |
Example
You weigh 70 kg and are 170 cm tall.
- BMI = 70 ÷ (1.7 × 1.7) = 24.2
- WHO category: Normal
- Asian Indian category: Overweight
- Healthy weight for 170 cm (BMI 18.5 – 22.9): 53.5 – 66.2 kg
Limits of BMI
- It does not tell muscle from fat, so athletes can show a high BMI while being fit.
- It is not meant for children and teenagers, who need age-based charts, or for pregnant women.
- Waist size matters too. A waist above about 90 cm for men and 80 cm for women is often used in India as a sign of extra risk.
BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. Talk to a doctor about your weight and health.
FAQ
What is a normal BMI for Indians?
Under the Asian Indian cut-offs, a BMI of 18.5 to 22.9 is considered normal, 23 to 24.9 overweight, and 25 or more obese.
Why are the cut-offs lower for Indians?
Studies show that South Asians develop diabetes and heart disease at lower BMI levels than Europeans, because they tend to carry more body fat, especially around the waist.
How do I convert my height from feet to centimetres?
Multiply feet by 30.48 and inches by 2.54, then add them. For 5 feet 7 inches: 5 × 30.48 + 7 × 2.54 = 170.2 cm.
Is BMI accurate for everyone?
No. It is a quick estimate that works for most adults, but it can mislead for very muscular people, older adults and pregnant women.