Body Mass Index (BMI): A Specific Number To Consider

Many of our bariatric weight loss surgery patients began their journey with a simple calculation called Body Mass Index (BMI).

Based on a significant volume of statistical data, BMI is a number (a ratio) calculated from a person's weight and height-and provides an initial general guideline for the level of body fat being carried by an individual. While it does not measure body fat directly, research indicates that BMI correlates quite favorable to direct measures of body fat.

It is an inexpensive and easy-to-perform method of screening for weight categories that may lead to health problems-problems that may motivate a consultation with a bariatric weight loss surgeon.

How is BMI used?

BMI is used as a screening tool to identify possible weight problems for adults-but it is NOT a diagnostic tool. To determine if excess weight is a health risk, there is no substitute for a consultation with a medical weight loss expert. Such a consultation might include a skinfold thickness and waist-to-hip ratio measurements, evaluations of diet and physical activity, a family history, diet history, weight gain history and more.

BMI Calculator

Use the calculator below to discover your BMI number, then use the chart as a general reference for what your current classification would be, from a medical perspective.