BMI EXPLAINED

BMI stands for Body Mass Index (BMI). Health professionals use it to determine total body fat based on height and weight. Using the chart below, find your height then follow across the line to your current weight. Next, follow that number vertically to the top to determine your BMI.

A BMI of 25 - 34 is considered overweight; a BMI of 35 - 39 is considered obese; a BMI of 40 or above is considered morbidly obese.

The BMI chart is only one of the tools used by surgeons and insurance companies to determine if you comply with their criteria for bariatric surgery. It is also a good tool for your healthcare provider to see how you as a patient rate with the standard population within your height and weight group. Just keep in mind that your BMI is only one of the tools used to help you in your daily health plan, so talk with your doctor about how you can use this information in your own weight loss plan.

Information from USDA