What does being 'overweight' mean?

Being overweight means having more body weight than is considered healthy for your height. It is clinically defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 25.0 and 29.9. This condition is a significant risk factor for several chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

What is the difference between overweight and obese?

Both 'overweight' and 'obese' describe excess body weight, but they represent different levels of risk on the BMI scale. A BMI of 25.0-29.9 is classified as overweight, while a BMI of 30.0 or higher is classified as obese. Obesity indicates a more severe level of excess weight and carries a higher risk of health complications.

Is BMI the best way to know if I'm overweight?

BMI is an excellent, widely used screening tool for assessing weight status in the general population because it is simple and inexpensive. However, it does not directly measure body fat and can be less accurate for individuals with high muscle mass (like athletes). For a complete health assessment, healthcare providers often consider other factors like waist circumference and body fat percentage.

How much weight should I lose if I am overweight?

Our calculator will show you the weight you need to lose to reach the upper limit of the 'Healthy Weight' range (a BMI of 24.9). However, even a modest weight loss of 5-10% of your current body weight can lead to significant health benefits. It is always best to set realistic goals and consult a healthcare professional for a personalized plan.

Overweight Calculator

Are you overweight? Check your Body Mass Index (BMI) to understand your current weight status.

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Understanding Your BMI and Weight Status

Wondering "am I overweight"? The most common first step to answer this question is calculating your Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI is a measure that uses your height and weight to gauge whether your weight is healthy. This calculator is a simple screening tool that helps you understand where you fall on the weight status spectrum, from underweight to obese. It's a vital indicator of potential health risks associated with carrying excess weight.

How to Interpret Your BMI Results

After you enter your information, the calculator provides your BMI score and classifies it into one of four main categories, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO):

Underweight: Your BMI is below 18.5.
Healthy Weight: Your BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9.
Overweight: Your BMI is from 25.0 to 29.9.
Obese: Your BMI is 30.0 or higher.

Our results also show the ideal weight range for your specific height, telling you exactly how many pounds or kilograms you might need to lose or gain to enter the healthy weight category. For a more detailed analysis, our Healthy Weight Calculator uses multiple formulas for a broader perspective.

Why Does Being Overweight Matter for Your Health?

Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important things you can do for your long-term health. Being in the overweight or obese BMI categories significantly increases your risk of developing serious, chronic health conditions. These include:

Type 2 Diabetes
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Heart Disease and Stroke
Certain Types of Cancer (including breast, colon, and kidney)
Sleep Apnea and other respiratory problems
Osteoarthritis (joint pain and degradation)
Fatty Liver Disease

Even a modest weight loss—as little as 5% to 10% of your total body weight—can produce meaningful health benefits, such as improved blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.

What Are the Next Steps Toward a Healthier Weight?

If your results indicate you are overweight, view this as a powerful first step towards positive change. The key to reaching a healthier weight is making sustainable lifestyle adjustments that create a consistent calorie deficit. This is best achieved through a combination of improved nutrition and regular physical activity.

Balanced Nutrition: Focus on a diet rich in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Reduce intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and saturated fats. To plan your meals effectively, use our Protein Calculator to ensure you're getting enough for muscle maintenance and satiety.
Consistent Exercise: The CDC recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (like brisk walking or cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running) each week. It is also important to include muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days a week.

Disclaimer: This calculator is a screening tool and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Factors like muscle mass and body composition can affect BMI. Please consult with a healthcare provider to get a complete health assessment and a personalized action plan.