UT University Health Services

BMI

Body Mass Index is a simple calculation that uses height and weight.

BMI = Weight (in kg) / [Height (in meters)]2

People with low (<19) and high (>30) BMIs may be at risk for developing health problems. For example people with a low BMI are at risk for osteoporosis and/or an eating disorder. Those with high BMIs may be at risk for heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

*Although BMI can be helpful for assessing the health risks of populations, it is not always accurate for evaluating individual people. For example:

  • An athlete with a lot of muscle may have a BMI above 30 even though he/she is perfectly healthy.
  • On the other hand, someone who smokes, is inactive, and eats poorly cannot be considered "healthy," even if their BMI happens to be within the normal range.

There is a growing body of research that suggests that lifestyle choices are more important in determining health risks than height and weight are.

Consult with a health care provider for interpretation of your BMI and evaluation of your individual health risks.

UHS Appointments

Nutrition Links

Additional Nutrition Topics
Registered Dietitian Consultations
Mindful Eating Program
Nutrition Handouts
Nutrition Peer Led Workshops
Hunger and food insecurity - UT Outpost



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