About the BMI Calculator
Body Mass Index (BMI) compares your weight with your height to give a quick screening of whether your weight is in a healthy range. Because South Asians tend to carry more health risk at lower BMI, this calculator lets you switch to Asian / Indian cut-offs.
How to use the BMI Calculator
- Choose metric (cm, kg) or imperial (ft, lb).
- Enter your height and weight, or drag the sliders.
- Turn on Asian / Indian cut-offs if you are of South Asian origin.
- Read your BMI, category and the healthy weight range for your height.
Formula used
BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height (m)². Standard WHO categories: under 18.5 underweight, 18.5–24.9 healthy, 25–29.9 overweight, 30+ obese. Asian/Indian cut-offs used here: overweight from 23 and obese from 25.
Frequently asked questions
What is a healthy BMI for Indians?
Indian guidelines generally treat 18.5–22.9 as normal, 23–24.9 as overweight and 25 or more as obese, which is lower than the international cut-offs.
Is BMI accurate for everyone?
No. BMI does not separate muscle from fat, so athletes may read high. It is also not meant for pregnancy. Use it with waist-to-height ratio for a better picture.
How can I lower my BMI safely?
Small, steady changes work best: more vegetables and protein, fewer sugary drinks, daily walking and good sleep. Aim for about 0.25–0.5 kg loss per week.
Last reviewed: November 7, 2026