The Body Mass Index is a table of advised weight and height levels for men and women of various ages.

This index is used as a general guideline for optimum weight for height and age, to ensure long life and good health.

Recalculate your BMI

Generally, BMI is a measure of body fat. However, BMI use is inappropriate for people under 18 years of age, pregnant or breastfeeding, taller than 190cm or less than 150cm, a competitive or body building athlete, have a high level of muscle or skeletal mass or have a chronic health condition. That's where your individual history and consultation with your doctor can be helpful.

Medical research shows that BMI between a scale of 20 - 25 is associated with the lowest risk of weight related problems.

As the BMI is a rough guide for a general population, but is helpful in the Clinic situation for establishing ideal weight levels.

Many people, particularly women, are poor judges of their desired weight range and this is when BMI is suitable for use in the Clinic.

How can I tell if I'm overweight?

For adults, overweight and obesity ranges are determined by using weight and height to calculate a number called the "Body Mass Index" (BMI). BMI is used because, for most people, it correlates with their amount of body fat..

1. Healthy = BMI 20 - 25
2. Overweight = BMI 25 - 29.9
3. Obese = BMI 30 or higher