How healthy is your weight?
BMI relates your weight to your height. It's a first indication, not a final verdict. From a BMI of 30, or 27 with related complaints, medical support may be appropriate.
- BMI
- weight (kg) ÷ height² (m)
In cm of meters.
In kilogram.
What BMI does and doesn't tell you
BMI is a population-level statistic that happens to apply to you too. It says something about health risk at a group level, but less about you as an individual.
A high BMI is associated with a greater risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, sleep apnea, gallstones, joint problems and certain types of cancer. That makes it a useful first check, but not a complete picture.
BMI doesn't take muscle mass, bone density or fat distribution into account. Someone with a lot of muscle mass can have a high BMI without any health risk. And two people with the same BMI can have very different health profiles, depending on where their fat is stored.
The categories, neatly laid out
For adults between 18 and 70 years old.
- < 18.5
- UnderweightBelow the healthy range
- 18.5 – 24.9
- Healthy weightWithin the healthy range
- 25 – 29.9
- OverweightSlightly increased risk
- ≥ 30
- ObesityIncreased health risk
From age 70, the healthy range is slightly higher: 22 – 28.
When is medical support appropriate?
Medical support with GLP-1 medication is not a first step, but an option when BMI and other health factors give reason to consider it. The Dutch guideline looks at:
- BMI of 30 or higher
- Obesity, regardless of other health concerns
- BMI of 27 or higher
- With weight-related conditions (type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnoea)
- At least 18 years old
- Treatment is only available for adults
- Not pregnant or breastfeeding
- Medication is not appropriate during these phases
Wondering if you qualify? At Lean Clinic, a BIG-registered doctor reviews your situation during a personal intake, always alongside lifestyle support from a coach.
Do the checkWaist circumference: a second check
Where you carry fat matters at least as much as how much you have. Fat around the abdomen increases your risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, independent of your BMI.
- MaleIncreased risk
- > 94 cm
- MaleHigh risk
- > 102 cm
- WomanIncreased risk
- > 80 cm
- WomanHigh risk
- > 88 cm
Measure halfway between your lowest rib and the top of your pelvis, against bare skin.
General information
about GLP-1 medication.
Below you'll find an overview of the best-known GLP-1 medications. This is general, informational content. Which medication, dosage or treatment is right for you is always determined by a doctor during a personal intake, alongside lifestyle guidance.
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, originally developed for type 2 diabetes. It is also prescribed for people with overweight and obesity.
- Active ingredient
- Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics a naturally occurring hormone in the body.
- Usage
- Once a week via a subcutaneous injection using a prefilled pen.
- Target group
- Registered for type 2 diabetes. Can also be prescribed for overweight and obesity.
- How it works
- Regulates blood sugar levels, reduces appetite and slows gastric emptying for a longer-lasting feeling of fullness.
- Potential weight loss
- An average of 10-15% with regular use and a healthy lifestyle.
- Side effects
- Mainly nausea, gastrointestinal complaints and fatigue. These usually decrease over time.
This medication is available on prescription only and should be used under professional medical supervision. A personal screening and regular check-ins are essential for safe and effective treatment. This medication is not covered by health insurance.
Everything you want to know
about BMI.
- Is BMI a reliable measure?
- For most people, yes, as an indication. BMI doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density or body composition. For athletes, people with high muscle mass and people with an Asian background, other measures may be more relevant.
- When is medical supervision appropriate?
- Doctors typically look at a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher combined with weight-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or sleep apnoea. At Lean Clinic, BIG-registered doctors always assess your situation personally.
- How do GLP-1 injections work?
- GLP-1 medications mimic the satiety hormone GLP-1. They reduce hunger, slow gastric emptying and regulate blood sugar. Well-known active substances include semaglutide and tirzepatide.
- Is a healthy BMI the same for men and women?
- The BMI categories are the same for adults aged 18 to 70, regardless of sex. There are differences in body composition that can affect interpretation though. See specific information for men or women.
- What is waist circumference and why does it matter?
- Waist circumference gives an indication of abdominal fat, which carries an additional risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. You measure halfway between your lowest rib and the top of your pelvis. For men, above 94 cm is considered increased risk and above 102 cm is high risk. For women, the thresholds are 80 and 88 cm.
- How soon can I expect results?
- With medical supervision, 5 to 10% weight loss within 3 to 6 months is realistic. How quickly you progress depends on your starting point, lifestyle and whether medication is appropriate for you.
- Is medication covered by insurance?
- In the Netherlands, this treatment is usually not covered by basic health insurance. Some supplementary plans do offer coverage, so it's worth checking with your insurer.
- When should I see a GP or dietitian?
- If you have persistent underweight, unintentional weight loss, a BMI above 30, or a BMI of 27 to 30 with health complaints, a GP or dietitian can refer you and give you personal advice.
Blog about medical weight loss
Read our articles about medical weight loss, lifestyle, nutrition, medication, obesity, exercise and healthy living.
Ontsteking en obesitas: waar start de vicieuze cirkel?
Een diepgaande blik op de complexe relatie tussen obesitas en chronische ontsteking, hoe ze elkaar versterken, en hoe leefstijl en nieuwe behandelingen zoals GLP-1 medicatie deze cirkel kunnen doorbreken.
Eerste GLP-1 medicijn goedgekeurd voor MASH in Europa
Europa keurt eerste GLP-1 medicijn goed voor MASH-behandeling. Semaglutide (Kayshild) biedt hoop voor miljoenen met leverziekte.
GLP-1 receptoragonisten en hun rol in het verlagen van infectierisico's
Ontdek hoe GLP-1 receptoragonisten niet alleen diabetes behandelen, maar ook het risico op ernstige infecties verlagen. Lees meer over deze veelbelovende bevindingen!