Anorexic BMI Calculator

Assess anorexia risk indicators based on Body Mass Index standards. Enter your details below.

How to Use This Calculator

Follow these simple steps to check your BMI against anorexia risk indicators:

1. Select Unit System: Click the tabs at the top to choose between Imperial System (feet/pounds), International System (cm/kg), or Other.
2. Enter Details: Input your current Age and select your Gender.
3. Input Measurements: Enter your accurate Height and Weight in the fields provided.
4. Calculate: Press the "Calculate BMI" button to process your data.
5. Interpret Results: Read the BMI value and the risk message displayed below. Compare this with the "Severity Thresholds" table below for more context.
6. Reset: Use the "Reset" button to clear the form and start over.

Understanding BMI and Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia Nervosa is a serious mental health condition characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. While Body Mass Index (BMI) is not a perfect tool for individual health assessment, medical professionals use specific BMI thresholds as one of several criteria to diagnose the severity of anorexia in adults.

Anorexia BMI Severity Thresholds

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and ICD-10 criteria, the severity of thinness in adults is categorized as follows:

Health Risks of Low BMI

Maintaining a BMI below 17.5 for an extended period can lead to severe health complications. The body begins to conserve energy, leading to:

• Cardiovascular issues: Slow heart rate (bradycardia), low blood pressure, and heart muscle wasting.
• Hormonal imbalances: Loss of menstrual cycle (amenorrhea) in females and low testosterone in males.
• Bone density loss: Osteoporosis and increased risk of fractures.
• Organ failure: In extreme cases, kidney or liver damage may occur due to malnutrition.

Limitations of this Calculator

Please use this calculator with caution. BMI is a simple calculation based on height and weight. It does not differentiate between muscle mass, bone density, and fat. Athletes may have a high BMI due to muscle, while elderly individuals may have a normal BMI but low muscle mass (sarcopenia). Furthermore, this calculator is designed for adults over 20; children and teens require growth charts (percentiles).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the BMI for hospitalization?

While criteria vary by country and hospital, immediate hospitalization is often considered for adults with a BMI below 15, or a BMI below 16 with co-occurring medical complications (like heart rhythm abnormalities).

Can you be anorexic with a normal BMI?

Yes. This is known as "Atypical Anorexia Nervosa." The behaviors (restriction, fear of weight gain) and physical damage can be just as severe as in those with low BMI.

When should I see a doctor?

If you are obsessing over food, weight, or body image, or if your BMI has dropped below 18.5 unintentionally, you should consult a healthcare provider or a mental health professional immediately.