Anorexic BMI Calculator

This tool provides a reference table of BMI ranges used clinically to assess underweight severity. A BMI below 17.5 is o...

Medical Tool: BMI is a screening measure, not a diagnostic tool. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized assessment.

BMI RangeCategory
< 16Severe Thinness
16 – 17Moderate Thinness
17 – 18.5Mild Thinness
18.5 – 25Normal Weight
25 – 30Overweight
30 – 35Obese Class I
35 – 40Obese Class II
≥ 40Obese Class III
Guides & Reference

How It Works

This tool provides a reference table of BMI ranges used clinically to assess underweight severity. A BMI below 17.5 is one of the diagnostic criteria for anorexia nervosa. Severe underweight (BMI <15) requires urgent medical attention.

Quick Reference

BMI < 17.5

Clinical threshold

Anorexic range

BMI 17.5-18.5

Below threshold

Underweight

BMI 18.5-24.9

Healthy range

Normal weight

Tips & Shortcuts

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BMI is one component of eating disorder assessment — behavior, psychology, and medical history are equally important.

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Recovery from anorexia is possible with proper treatment. Early intervention significantly improves outcomes.

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If you are concerned about your weight or relationship with food, speak with a doctor or eating disorder specialist.

Common Mistakes

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Diagnosing an eating disorder by BMI alone

Clinical diagnosis requires assessment by a qualified professional. People at normal BMI can have serious eating disorders.

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Using BMI thresholds as weight goals

BMI ranges are clinical reference points, not targets. A healthcare provider should guide any weight-related goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

A BMI below 15 is classified as severely underweight and corresponds to clinical thresholds for anorexia nervosa. A BMI below 17.5 is one of the diagnostic criteria.

In the US, contact the National Alliance for Eating Disorders helpline at 1-866-662-1235 (Mon–Fri, 9am–7pm ET). Crisis Text Line: text HOME to 741741.

No. Clinical diagnosis requires assessment by a qualified professional. People with eating disorders can have a BMI in the normal or overweight range.

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