BMI categories — WHO vs Asian-Indian
| Category | WHO (global) | Asian-Indian guideline |
|---|---|---|
| Underweight | < 18.5 | < 18.5 |
| Normal | 18.5 – 24.9 | 18.5 – 22.9 |
| Overweight | 25 – 29.9 | 23 – 24.9 |
| Obese | ≥ 30 | ≥ 25 |
Research shows people of South Asian descent develop diabetes and heart disease at lower BMIs than Western populations, so Indian health bodies use stricter cutoffs. This calculator shows both, so you get the fuller picture most BMI tools skip.
BMI's limits
BMI doesn't distinguish muscle from fat and doesn't account for age, sex or fat distribution. A muscular person can read "overweight"; waist circumference and body-fat percentage add important context.
Health disclaimer: This tool is for general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. BMI is a screening measure, not a health verdict. Please consult a qualified doctor or dietitian before making decisions about your weight or health.
FAQs
What's a healthy weight for my height?
The tool shows the range corresponding to BMI 18.5–24.9 for your height (*WHO definition). For Asian-Indian cutoffs the upper end is lower — BMI 22.9.
Does BMI apply to children?
No — children and teens use age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles. This calculator is for adults 18+.