Anorexia and Body Mass Index: A Healthy Tool for an Unhealthy Obsession

Anorexia is a growing concern, and in this thin-obsessed society, many cases of anorexia go undiagnosed. How thin is too thin? Body Mass Index can help you find out.

Anorexia and BMI

Sometimes the mirror lies. If you suspect you or someone you know may be too underweight and at risk for health problems, Body Mass Index can be an important tool.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a medical calculation used to determine weight categories from severely underweight to severely obese. It’s calculated by taking weight in kilograms, and dividing by the square of height in meters. Too much math? Use this free BMI calculator.

BMI Chart: How Body Mass Index Values are Categorized

BMI VALUE CATEGORY
17.5 or under Extremely Underweight
17.6 to 18.4 Underweight
18.5 to 24.9 Healthy
25.0 to 29.9 Overweight
30.0 to 39.9 Obesity
40.0 and greater Extreme Obesity

Anorexia and BMI Caution

Although Anorexics have a Body Mass Index of less than 17.5,the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders warns that, “Not everyone who is of a low weight is anorexic; it is important to recognize that it is the REFUSAL to maintain a normal weight that is the key factor.”

Other Factors of Anorexia

• Fear of gaining weight
• distorted body image
• low self esteem
• denial of seriously low body weight or Body Mass Index
• Absence of three consecutive menstrual cycles

Health Problems of Anorexia

Anorexia can be extremely dangerous. The National Eating Disorders Association lists these health risks for people with a Body Mass Index below 17.5:

• Low blood pressure and risk for heart failure
• Reduction of bone density (osteoporosis)
• Muscle loss and weakness
• Severe dehydration, which can result in kidney failure
• Fainting, fatigue, and overall weakness
• Dry hair and skin, hair loss

Free BMI Calculator

Body Mass Index can be a very helpful tool in determining and maintaining a healthy weight range. If you would like to find out what your Body Mass Index is, use this free BMI calculator. Or, for information on healthy weight management including nutritional recommendations, click here.