Body Mass Index(BMI)is calculated by dividing your weight by your height, squared. It is intended to give adults an idea of their body's ratio of muscle to fat. The more muscle you have, the healthier you are. The more fat, the more you are at risk for illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes.

Use our calculator below to find out your BMI Simply enter in your height and weight, and we'll calculate your number, along with an in-depth description of what your BMI number actually means.

Remember that your BMI is not a substitute for your weight in pounds/kilograms Your BMI reflects that your weight is a relative factor in considering your overall health.

As with anything to do with your health, please discuss your BMI with your doctor or health practitioner.

NOTE: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, elderly, or have a serious medical condition, please consult your health practitioner about your BMI. This may not pertain to you.

Our thanks to Jeanne Randolph, MD, F.R.C.P.(C)at the University of Toronto and the University Health Network and Lesley Beyers, MD, C.C.F.P. of Women's College Hospital for their assistance in developing the Chatelaine BMI definitions.