Is a BMI of 17-18 Considered Healthy?
For quite some time, this issue has been weighing heavily on my mind. Although I’m twenty now, I’ve struggled with concerns about my height since I was around seventeen. Throughout my childhood, I was always on the thinner side. I experienced a growth spurt and reached 5'9" by the age of sixteen, despite my parents being 5'6" and 5'0". However, that growth suddenly halted after that point. As a teenager, my diet consisted of primarily vegetarian meals with an ample supply of vegetables, but I rarely consumed milk because I disliked it. This has led me to wonder whether my dietary choices negatively impacted my growth. To complicate matters further, I never developed much facial or body hair during those years, making me feel as though I hadn't reached full maturity, yet my height still ceased to advance. When I hear about others who grew several inches after turning sixteen, it leads me into a spiral of overthinking. I can’t help but feel a nagging suspicion that I may have hindered my own growth in some way.
Answers (1)
2/10/2026, 7:01:01 PM
OpenHealth AI
A BMI (Body Mass Index) in the range of 17-18 is considered underweight, which could pose health risks over time. It's understandable to feel concerned about your growth and body image, especially after reflecting on your dietary habits and physical development. Let's explore this further to help you understand and take actionable steps towards improving your health.
Understanding BMI and Growth
- BMI Calculation: BMI is calculated using your weight and height. For adults, a BMI below 18.5 is classified as underweight. This could indicate a need for weight gain, particularly if it is impacting your energy levels or overall wellbeing.
- Growth Factors: Growth can be influenced by genetics, nutrition, and overall health. While some individuals may continue to grow taller after age 16, many stop growing due to genetic factors. Nutritional intake during adolescence is crucial for supporting healthy growth, though it's important to note that it's not solely responsible for height.
Addressing Your Concerns
It sounds like you're seeking reassurance and guidance on how to support your health. Here are some steps you might consider:
-
Evaluate Your Diet:
- Focus on a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods to ensure you're getting the essential nutrients. Include sources of protein (like beans, lentils, tofu, nuts), vitamins, and minerals.
- Consider incorporating dairy alternatives fortified with calcium and vitamin D like almond milk, soy milk, or leafy greens.
-
Monitor Your Weight:
- If you feel comfortable, track your weight and BMI regularly to see if there are changes over time. Aim to reach a healthier range (18.5-24.9) through gradual weight gain if necessary.
-
Physical Activity:
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise to build muscle mass and improve your overall health. Strength training can be particularly beneficial.
- Activities like yoga or pilates can also promote body awareness and confidence.
-
Address Emotional Wellbeing:
- It’s important to address any underlying feelings you may have regarding self-image. Consider speaking with a friend, family member, or counselor about your thoughts, as this can help in processing your feelings about growth and body image.
-
Stay Informed:
- Read up on nutrition and growth to enhance your understanding, but be cautious to avoid misinformation that fuels anxiety. Official health sources or registered dietitians can provide reliable guidance.
Moving Forward
Focus on gradual, sustainable changes in your diet and lifestyle rather than looking for quick fixes. This process is individual, and it's important to be patient and kind to yourself as you navigate these changes. If you experience any concerning symptoms, such as significant weight loss or fatigue, consider seeking professional advice.
Remember, you’re not alone in your feelings, and many factors impact health and growth. Taking proactive steps can help you feel empowered in managing your health journey.
Related Questions
Concerns About Ulnar Nerve Entrapment
Hello everyone, I'm a 17-year-old female who engages in regular workouts. A couple of years back, I began to notice an unusual popping sound coming from my elbow. It seemed as if something was shifting whenever I performed push-ups, but I didn’t pay much attention to it at the time. Recently, I've experienced this popping sensation again during my workouts, though some days I wouldn't feel it at all. Unfortunately, the situation has worsened to the point where I now experience pain, especially when trying to work out my triceps. The popping and shifting have become constant, and today marked a turning point: I now feel pain even when my elbow is bent or at rest, although I don't notice any discomfort when my arm is straightened. I'm reaching out to see if anyone has suggestions for remedies or movements that might aid in recovery. Any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated!
Concerns About Fluid Under Toenail After Injury
Age: 26 Gender: Male Height: 178 cm Weight: 85 kg Current Medications: None regularly prescribed Smoking Habits: Yes Relevant Medical History: No ongoing or chronic illnesses Area of Concern: Left big toenail Symptom Duration: Noticed fluid accumulation in the past week; previous nail removal occurred 13 years prior. Hello medical professionals, Thirteen years ago, due to an injury, I had my big toenail surgically excised. Ever since, it has struggled to develop normally. Lately, I discovered a void beneath the toenail. In an attempt to address it, I trimmed the loose part and exposed some raw, red tissue along with a clear to yellowish fluid. Thankfully, there’s no accompanying pain, fever, foul odor, or increased redness in the area. A pharmacist has given me a prescription for fusidic acid 2% cream, which I have been applying gently with light gauze. I’m concerned: Is this fluid build-up indicative of a serious condition?
Snack Cravings: A Personal Reflection
As a 30-year-old man residing in New England, I have recently undergone a thyroidectomy due to a tumor, and I’m not currently on any medication. During work hours, I find myself continuously snacking to maintain my concentration. Lately, I’ve been consuming tremendous amounts of Chinook sunflower seeds—approaching several packs daily. The nutritional information available appears satisfactory, leading me to question whether it’s advisable to continue indulging in these seeds or if there exist healthier options I should consider. I’m reaching out for insights on this matter.
Managing Cold Symptoms While on Sertraline
At 26 years old, standing 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 150 pounds, I find myself battling a severe cold. In the past, I would typically reach for cold relief medication, but since I'm currently prescribed 100mg of sertraline, I've come across information suggesting that these medications could potentially have interactions. I'm seeking suggestions on effective ways to alleviate my cold symptoms without the use of conventional cold remedies.
Are White Spots on Fingers Linked to Skin Trauma?
At 22 years old and living with ADHD, I find myself constantly battling the urge to pick at the skin surrounding my nails. Lately, I've discovered that each area I’ve habitually picked at has developed white spots. These spots do not protrude, are painless to touch, and other than their appearance, I haven't noticed anything unusual about them. They are solely localized to the areas I’ve manipulated and are absent elsewhere on my hands or body. Could it be reasonable to think that these marks are a result of trauma caused by my skin picking? I recently resumed this habit after successfully overcoming it for three years, yet this is the first time I’ve encountered this issue, prompting me to seek advice.