Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple and popular method to gauge whether your weight is appropriate for your height. While it does not measure body fat directly, it can still give a quick indication of overall fitness. Since a person’s ideal weight parameters can vary on the basis of their gender and age, a healthy BMI range can vary, as well. To determine if you are within the healthy range, it is essential to factor in those aspects. Let’s find out a little more about how BMI works and what different groups should aim for.
What is BMI? How to Calculate It?
BMI is a numerical value calculated using your height and weight.
The formula is:
BMI = Weight (in kg) ÷ (Height (in metres))2
For convenience, you can also use an online BMI calculator to get results instantly.
BMI helps classify individuals into categories such as underweight, normal, overweight, or obese. While it is a simple and basic measure, BMI is still a helpful indicator of health risks when considered alongside age, gender, and lifestyle factors.
Healthy Ranges for BMI As Per Age
A general healthy BMI range for most adults falls between 18.5 and 24.9. However, an accurate age range plays an important role in interpreting BMI.
Children and teenagers
Their BMI is calculated and compared using age-adjusted percentiles rather than fixed numbers, given their rapid growth rate.
Adults
For adults between the ages of 20 and 60, a BMI range of 18.5 to 24.9 is considered normal. BMI ranges differ between men and women.
Seniors
For those over the age of 60, slightly higher BMI values may still be healthy. This is because muscle mass naturally decreases with age. A BMI between 25 and 27 is still considered acceptable for some seniors, as long as it is approved by a doctor.
At this stage of life, BMI works best when viewed alongside daily habits, activity levels, and overall strength. These factors often give a clearer picture of health than the number alone.
Healthy Ranges for BMI As Per Gender
Men and women have different body compositions, which is why gender-specific BMI calculation can be useful.
Normal BMI Range for Women
As per experts, the normal BMI range for females lies between 18.5 and 24.9. It is set after taking the hormonal and metabolic differences into account.
Normal BMI Range for Men
Usually, the healthy BMI range for a male is considered 18.5 to 24.9 as well. However, muscle mass tends to be higher in males. So, the healthy BMI range for a male may allow for slightly higher weight without increasing health risks.
Despite these small variations, maintaining a balanced diet and active lifestyle remains important for everyone.
Risks of Being Overweight or Underweight
Being outside the healthy ranges for BMI may increase the risk of health problems.
Individuals who are overweight or obese may experience:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Joint pain
- Sleep apnea.
Underweight individuals may experience:
- Low immunity
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Weak bones
- Fatigue
- Higher risk of infections.
A healthy weight also influences financial well-being. Many life insurance and term life insurance plans consider BMI during underwriting, since extreme BMI levels can increase health risks.
Regular exercise and consuming a nutritious, balanced diet are the most effective ways of maintaining a healthy BMI.
BMI is a quick and reliable tool to understand where your body weight stands in relation to your height. Once you know the normal BMI range for women, men, children, and seniors, across ages and genders, you can take the required steps toward better health. Using a BMI calculator can help you keep track of your progress.
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