Asian BMI Calculator
Free BMI calculator with Asian and Indian cut-offs — normal 18.5–22.9, overweight 23–24.9, obese 25+ — side by side with the international WHO categories.
Why a different BMI for Asians?
At the same BMI, people of South Asian origin tend to have more body fat and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease than white Europeans. A WHO expert consultation (2004) therefore suggested lower action points for Asian populations, and Indian consensus guidelines (2009) adopted them.
| Category | Asian / Indian BMI | International (WHO) |
|---|---|---|
| Underweight | below 18.5 | below 18.5 |
| Normal | 18.5–22.9 | 18.5–24.9 |
| Overweight | 23.0–24.9 | 25.0–29.9 |
| Obese | 25 and above | 30 and above |
Check your waist too — for South Asians a waist over 80 cm (women) or 90 cm (men) signals higher risk. Use the waist-to-hip ratio calculator and the Indian diabetes risk score.
Frequently asked questions
What is a normal BMI for Indians?
18.5 to 22.9. A BMI of 23–24.9 is considered overweight and 25 or more obese under Indian guidelines.
Why is my BMI “normal” on one website and “overweight” on another?
Most calculators use the international cut-offs (normal up to 24.9). Asian cut-offs are lower because health risks start at a lower BMI.
Does BMI measure body fat?
Not directly. It is a quick screening number; waist size and body-fat measurements add detail.
Sources: WHO expert consultation: BMI for Asian populations (Lancet 2004) · NHS: BMI calculator (ethnicity-adjusted)
Reviewed for accuracy against the sources above. This page is general information, not medical advice — talk to your doctor about your own health.