What These Calculators Do
Our health calculators provide quick estimates based on established medical formulas. Use them to get a starting point for understanding your body's numbers — then discuss results with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Important: These tools are educational, not diagnostic. They cannot replace professional medical advice.
Featured Calculators
BMI Calculator
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a screening tool that uses height and weight to estimate body fat. It provides a general indication of whether your weight falls within a healthy range.
BMI Categories:
- Under 18.5 — Underweight
- 18.5–24.9 — Normal weight
- 25.0–29.9 — Overweight
- 30.0 and above — Obese
The calculator supports both metric (kg/cm) and imperial (lbs/ft/in) measurements.
Limitations: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat. Athletes or muscular individuals may have a high BMI despite being healthy. The CDC provides more context on how to interpret BMI results.
Calorie Calculator
This tool estimates your daily energy needs based on age, gender, height, weight, and activity level. It uses the Mifflin-St Jeor equation, which is considered one of the most accurate formulas for estimating resting metabolic rate.
The calculator provides:
- Maintenance calories (to maintain current weight)
- Weight loss calories (moderate deficit)
- Weight gain calories (surplus for muscle building)
Your actual needs may vary based on metabolism, health conditions, and other factors. The National Institutes of Health offers a more detailed body weight planner for long-term planning.
Using Health Calculators Responsibly
Do:
- Use results as a starting point for health discussions
- Track changes over time to see trends
- Consult professionals before making significant lifestyle changes
Don't:
- Treat results as medical diagnoses
- Make extreme dietary changes based solely on calculator results
- Ignore how you feel in favor of numbers alone
Everyone's body is unique. These calculators provide general guidance, but your healthcare provider can offer personalized advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the BMI calculator?
The BMI calculation is mathematically precise, but BMI as a health metric has limitations. It doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, or fat distribution. Use it as one of many health indicators.
Why do men and women have different calorie needs?
On average, men have more muscle mass and higher basal metabolic rates than women, meaning they typically burn more calories at rest. The calculator accounts for these biological differences.
How often should I recalculate my calorie needs?
Recalculate when your weight, activity level, or goals change significantly. A good guideline is to recalculate after every 10–15 pounds of weight change.
Can I use BMI for children?
This BMI calculator is designed for adults. Children and teens have different growth patterns; their BMI should be interpreted using age-specific percentile charts. Consult a pediatrician.