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Body Mass Index (BMI) Tool for Children and Teens
Your child's results
Your child has a BMI of
This means your child is weighs too little. An ideal BMI for your child's is between and . This is based on your child's sex and age.
It may be OK for your child to underweight. Or a health problem could be causing your child to be underweight. Talk with your child's healthcare provider.
This means your child is at the right weight. An ideal BMI for your child is between and . This is based on your child's sex and age.
Being at the right weight means your child’s calorie intake is balanced out with their level of activity. Make sure your child eats healthy foods and get plenty of exercise. Good habits learned now will last a lifetime.
This means your child is at risk of being overweight. An ideal BMI for your child's sex and age is between and . This is based on your child's sex and age.
Being overweight is not healthy for a child. An overweight child may start to have problems with self-esteem. Studies show that heavy children can have health problems such as diabetes early in life.
Children who are overweight often stay that way as they grow into adults. As an adult, this raises their risk for serious diseases. These include stroke and heart attack. They are at risk for diabetes, arthritis, and some types of cancer. So now is the time to teach your child healthy habits. Make sure your child eats healthy foods and get plenty of exercise. Good habits learned now will last a lifetime.
This BMI means your child is obese. An ideal BMI for your child is between and . This is based on your child's sex and age.
BBeing obese is not healthy for a child. An obese child may start to have problems with self-esteem. Studies show that obese children can have health problems such as diabetes early in life.
Children who are obese usually stay that way as adults. In adults this boosts the risk for serious diseases such as stroke, heart attack, diabetes, arthritis, and some types of cancer. So now is the time to teach your child healthy habits.
This is not meant to replace a doctor’s care. Always talk with a doctor for advice about weight. Only your doctor can advise you about your child's health.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Adler, Liora C, MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Brennan, Dan, MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Turley, Raymond Kent BSN MSN RN
Date Last Reviewed:
1/1/2023
© 2000-2024 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.