HEALTH INSIGHTS

Children's BMI Calculator

By Lambert, J.G. M.D. 
 | 
July 15, 2019

BMI Calculator for Children and Teens

Body mass index (BMI) is one way to estimate a person's body fat that takes into consideration the person's height. BMI is calculated using a person's weight and height. In children and teens, BMI is used to find out if a child or teen is underweight, of a healthy weight, overweight, or obese. A child's body fat changes with age. Also, girls and boys differ in their amount of body fat as they mature. This is why BMI for children, also known as BMI-for-age, includes gender and age.

This calculator gives an approximate BMI for children from ages 5 to 18. It will tell you if a child is underweight, at an ideal weight, at risk of being overweight, or is now overweight.

Enter child's information

This calculator is not intended to replace the evaluation of a healthcare professional.

Updated:  

July 15, 2019

Sources:  

Fat and lean BMI reference curves in children and adolescents and their utility in identifying excess adiposity compared with BMI and percentage body fat. Weber DR. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2013;98(1):49-56.

Reviewed By:  

Liora C Adler MD,Pat F Bass MD MPH,Maryann Foley RN BSN