Ideal Weight Based on Height: BMI Approach
The ideal weight for an individual is best determined using Body Mass Index (BMI), with a healthy BMI range of 18.5-24.9 kg/m² representing the ideal weight range for most adults. 1
Understanding BMI and Ideal Weight
BMI is calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared (kg/m²). While BMI is not a direct measure of body fat, it serves as a practical and widely used screening tool for categorizing weight status.
BMI Categories:
- Underweight: BMI < 18.5 kg/m²
- Normal/Healthy weight: BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m²
- Overweight: BMI 25.0-29.9 kg/m²
- Obesity class I: BMI 30.0-34.9 kg/m²
- Obesity class II: BMI 35.0-39.9 kg/m²
- Obesity class III: BMI ≥ 40 kg/m² 1
How to Calculate Your Ideal Weight
Calculate your BMI: Weight (kg) ÷ Height (m)²
- Alternative formula: [Weight (lbs) ÷ Height (inches)²] × 703
Determine your ideal weight range:
- Find your height and calculate the weight that would put you in the BMI range of 18.5-24.9 kg/m²
- Example: For someone 5'6" (1.68m), the ideal weight range would be approximately 114-154 pounds (52-70 kg)
Height-to-Weight Chart
The FDA-approved Orlistat drug label provides a useful reference chart for determining if your weight is above the threshold where weight management intervention might be considered 2:
| Height | Weight |
|---|---|
| 4'10" | 129 lbs |
| 5'0" | 138 lbs |
| 5'2" | 147 lbs |
| 5'4" | 157 lbs |
| 5'6" | 167 lbs |
| 5'8" | 177 lbs |
| 5'10" | 188 lbs |
| 6'0" | 199 lbs |
| 6'2" | 210 lbs |
| 6'4" | 221 lbs |
Important Considerations and Limitations
BMI has limitations: While convenient, BMI doesn't distinguish between fat and muscle mass, which can lead to misclassification, particularly in athletes, elderly individuals, and certain ethnic groups 1, 3
Body fat distribution matters: Waist circumference provides additional information about health risks. Men with waist circumference >102 cm (>40 inches) and women with waist circumference >88 cm (>35 inches) have increased cardiovascular risk, even with normal BMI 1
Ethnic variations: Different BMI cutoffs may be appropriate for different ethnic groups. For example, individuals with Asian ancestry may be considered overweight at a BMI >23 kg/m² 1
Age considerations: The relationship between BMI and health risks varies with age, with some evidence suggesting that slightly higher BMI values may be acceptable in older adults 1
"Normal-weight obesity": Some individuals with normal BMI may still have excess body fat and metabolic risks 1
Beyond BMI: Additional Assessment Methods
For a more comprehensive assessment of healthy weight:
- Waist circumference: Measures central adiposity, which independently increases disease risk
- Body composition analysis: Methods like bioelectrical impedance can measure actual body fat percentage
- Clinical context: Consider other health parameters and risk factors beyond weight alone
Remember that ideal weight should ultimately support overall health, reduce disease risk, and enhance quality of life. The most effective approach to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight combines proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and behavioral strategies 1.