What is a healthy BMI according to Health Canada?

Health Canada follows WHO guidelines, recommending a healthy BMI range of 18.5 to 24.9 for adults. This range is associated with the lowest risk of health problems. A BMI below 18.5 is considered underweight, 25-29.9 is overweight, and 30 or above is obese.

Are BMI ranges different in Canada?

No, Health Canada uses the same standard BMI ranges as the WHO and most international health organizations: underweight (<18.5), normal weight (18.5-24.9), overweight (25-29.9), and obese (≥30). These ranges are consistent across Canada and align with global health standards.

How does Health Canada use BMI?

Health Canada uses BMI as a population health indicator and screening tool. It helps healthcare professionals assess weight-related health risks and identify individuals who may benefit from lifestyle interventions. BMI is often used alongside other health measurements in Canadian health assessments and public health monitoring.

What is the average BMI in Canada?

According to Statistics Canada, the average BMI for Canadian adults is approximately 27, which falls in the overweight category. However, this varies by age, gender, and province. Health Canada encourages maintaining a BMI within the healthy range (18.5-24.9) to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.

Should Canadians use metric or imperial units for BMI?

While Canada officially uses the metric system, this calculator supports both metric (kg, cm) and imperial (lbs, ft/in) units for convenience. Health Canada typically uses metric measurements in official guidelines, but BMI calculations are equivalent regardless of the unit system used. The formula works the same way with both systems.

How accurate is BMI according to Health Canada?

Health Canada recognizes BMI as a useful screening tool but acknowledges its limitations. BMI does not distinguish between muscle and fat mass, so it may not be accurate for very muscular individuals, athletes, pregnant women, or older adults with reduced muscle mass. Health Canada recommends consulting with healthcare professionals for a comprehensive health assessment that considers additional factors beyond BMI.

⚖️ BMI Calculator Canada

Canada-based BMI calculator using Health Canada guidelines. Enter height and weight to get BMI, classification, healthy ranges, chart, and examples.

Health Canada BMI Guidelines

This calculator uses Health Canada-approved BMI ranges and classifications based on World Health Organization (WHO) standards.

Height

Weight

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BMI Standard

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BMI in Canada

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Last updated: 2025-10-21 — Compiled and reviewed by Calvin (Health Research, FreeCalculators.app)