What is Body Mass Index (BMI)?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple number that shows whether your weight is in a healthy range for your height. In this video, Dr. Vikram Lotwala, bariatric surgeon in Surat, explains what BMI is and why it matters for your health.

How to calculate your BMI

BMI = weight in kilograms ÷ (height in metres × height in metres)

For example, a person who weighs 85 kg and is 1.65 m tall has a BMI of 85 ÷ (1.65 × 1.65) = 31.2.

What your BMI means

Asian Indians tend to develop diabetes and heart disease at a lower BMI than Western populations, so Indian guidelines use lower cut-offs:

• Below 18.5 – Underweight
• 18.5 to 22.9 – Normal
• 23 to 24.9 – Overweight
• 25 and above – Obese

Limits of BMI

BMI does not measure body fat directly. A muscular person can have a high BMI, and someone with a normal BMI can still carry harmful fat around the waist. That is why doctors also look at waist size and health conditions like diabetes and blood pressure.

Frequently asked questions

What is a healthy BMI for Indians?
Under Indian guidelines, a BMI between 18.5 and 22.9 is considered normal.

Does a high BMI mean I need bariatric surgery?
Not necessarily. Eligibility depends on BMI along with obesity-related health problems and previous weight loss attempts. A bariatric surgeon can assess this during consultation.

Book a consultation with Dr. Vikram Lotwala to understand your BMI and weight loss options in Surat.

Dr. Vikram Lotwala
Laparoscopic & Bariatric Surgeon
Wings Hospital, 1st Floor, Abhilasha Apartments, Madhuvan Circle, L P Savani Road, Surat, Gujarat
Phone: +91 99099 66056