Assess BMI against underweight and anorexia severity thresholds.
This calculator compares a BMI value against the DSM-5 severity specifiers for anorexia nervosa and the WHO underweight threshold. BMI is used in clinical settings as one component of assessing illness severity — not as a standalone diagnostic tool. Anorexia nervosa is a complex condition and a number on a screen does not capture the full picture of anyone's health or worth.
BMI
BMI = Weight (kg) ÷ Height² (m²)
DSM-5 AN severity thresholds
Mild AN: BMI ≥ 17 | Moderate: 16–16.99 | Severe: 15–15.99 | Extreme: <15
This tool is for informational and educational purposes only — it is not a diagnostic tool and does not provide medical advice. BMI is a limited screening measure; only a qualified healthcare professional can assess or diagnose an eating disorder. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder or body image concerns, please know that help is available and recovery is possible. You deserve support. • National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) Helpline: 1-800-931-2237 (US) • Crisis Text Line: Text 'NEDA' to 741741 • Beat Eating Disorders (UK): 0808 801 0677 • International resources: www.eatingdisordersolutions.com
The DSM-5 uses BMI to grade restriction severity: it correlates with metabolic complications (refeeding syndrome risk, cardiac arrhythmia, bone density loss). A BMI below 15 is associated with significant medical risk and typically requires inpatient or intensive outpatient care.
Yes — many people with anorexia, bulimia, or ARFID maintain a weight within the normal BMI range. BMI cannot diagnose an eating disorder; that requires a clinical assessment of eating behaviours, cognitions, and medical history. Never use BMI alone to dismiss someone's struggles.
Reach out to a healthcare provider, therapist, or one of the crisis and support lines listed in the disclaimer below. Recovery is possible with the right support — you are not alone, and asking for help is a sign of courage, not weakness.