Cold versus heat for pain relief: How to use them safely and effectively
How to reduce stress and anxiety through movement and mindfulness
Creating balanced, healthy meals from low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods
What are added sugars, and how can you reduce them in your diet?
In search of healthy whole grains: How to read a whole grain nutrition label
Physical symptoms of depression: Can depression contribute to pain?
Are energy drinks bad for you?
Menopause symptoms that may surprise you: What to watch for during perimenopause
How is PSA used to monitor prostate cancer?
Effects of sleep deprivation
BMI calculator
BMI (body mass index) is a calculation used to determine if a person is overweight that applies to both adult men and women. Although BMI is not perfect because it does not directly assess body fat, it is still considered a reasonable alternative for identify people who are overweight or obese, since measuring body fat directly is a costly process.
This BMI calculator will give your estimated number. Enter your height and weight below, then click the "Submit" button. If your BMI is above 25, losing weight is a smart idea.
BMI interpretation
| Under 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5 - 24.9 | Normal |
| 25 - 29.9 | Overweight |
| 30 and over | Obese |
BMI table
You can also determine your BMI using the chart below. First, identify your weight (to the nearest 10 pounds) in one of the columns across the top, then move your finger down the column until you come to the row that represents your height. Inside the square where your weight and height meet is a number that is an estimate of your BMI. For example, if you weigh 160 pounds and are 5'7", your BMI is 25.
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
Cold versus heat for pain relief: How to use them safely and effectively
How to reduce stress and anxiety through movement and mindfulness
Creating balanced, healthy meals from low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods
What are added sugars, and how can you reduce them in your diet?
In search of healthy whole grains: How to read a whole grain nutrition label
Physical symptoms of depression: Can depression contribute to pain?
Are energy drinks bad for you?
Menopause symptoms that may surprise you: What to watch for during perimenopause
How is PSA used to monitor prostate cancer?
Effects of sleep deprivation
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Lose Weight and Keep It Off
Successful weight loss depends largely on becoming more aware of your behaviors and starting to change them. Instead of relying on willpower, this process demands skill power. This Special Health Report, Lose Weight and Keep It Off, offers a range of solutions that have worked for many people and can be tailored to your needs.
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