BMI Result: 5ft 8in, 87 lbs (BMI 13.2) - Female

According to CDC and WHO standards, a BMI of 13.2 is classified as Underweight.

Quick answer: A 5ft 8in female weighing 87 lbs has a BMI of 13.2, classified as Underweight by CDC and WHO standards. The healthy weight range for this height is approximately 122โ€“164 lbs.

A female who is 5ft 8in tall and weighs 87lbs has a BMI of 13.2, which falls into the Underweight category used by the CDC and WHO for adults.

13.2
Underweight
โš ๏ธ BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnostic. It does not measure body fat directly. Learn more about how BMI is used.
Underweight Normal Overweight Obese
CategoryBMI Range
Underweight< 18.5
Underweight < 18.5
Obeseโ‰ฅ 30

Healthy weight range for 5ft 8in: 122 lbs โ€“ 164 lbs

Metric: 172.7 cm, 39.5 kg

๐Ÿ“ Healthy waist circumference for your height: 30" โ€“ 35" (below 35" for female)

So you're 5ft 8in and weigh 87lbs. Your BMI is 13.2, which falls into the Underweight category according to CDC and WHO standards. Let's break down what this means for your health.

Adult BMI classification: CDC & WHO standard (effective 1998-present).

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Understanding Your BMI

A BMI below 18.5 may indicate nutritional insufficiency. According to the CDC, this range is associated with increased risk of bone density loss and immune function decline. Consulting a healthcare provider is recommended for a thorough nutritional assessment.

Source: CDC Adult BMI Guidelines (2024)

What This Means for Your Height

For women of average height, BMI is a reliable screening tool. Pair it with waist circumference for a more complete health picture.

Weight & Threshold

Gaining approximately 34.9 lbs would bring your BMI to 18.5, the start of the next category.

โฌ†๏ธ Gaining approximately 34.9 lbs would put you in the Normal BMI range.

Waist & Health

The CDC recommends that non-pregnant women keep waist circumference below 35 inches. A waist-to-height ratio below 0.5 is also associated with lower health risks.

Source: CDC Adult BMI Guidelines (2024)

Age Context

For adults in early to middle adulthood (20-44), BMI is a reliable screening tool. At 44 years old, a woman at 5ft 8in and 87lbs has a BMI of 13.2, which falls into the Underweight category according to CDC and WHO standards.

Your BMI is below the healthy range. Consider consulting a healthcare provider for a nutritional assessment.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Check your Healthy Weight Range for more context.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Measure your Body Fat Percentage for a more complete picture.

Health Analysis

A BMI of 13.2 for a female with height 5ft 8in and weight 87lbs falls into the Underweight category.

Recommendations

General Health

A BMI of 13.2 is below the CDC and WHO healthy range of 18.5-24.9. This may indicate nutritional insufficiency. Consulting a healthcare provider is recommended for a thorough nutritional assessment.

Monitoring

In addition to BMI, pay attention to waist circumference. The CDC recommends females stay under 35 inches. Regular tracking of your measurements over time provides the most useful insight into your health trends.

Next Steps

If you're concerned about your weight or body composition, a healthcare provider can offer personalized guidance based on your full health profile.

Personalized Notes

Diet & Nutrition

At 5ft 8in and 87lbs, a BMI of 13.2 indicates underweight. For women of this height, the CDC recommends a healthy weight range of 121-163lbs. Consider nutrient-dense foods like nuts, avocados, and lean proteins to support healthy weight gain.

Health Risks

With a BMI of 13.2 for a 5ft 8in woman, the underweight range is associated with increased risk of bone density loss and immune function decline. Consulting a healthcare provider is recommended for a thorough nutritional assessment.

Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What health risks are associated with a BMI of 13.2 for a 5ft 8in woman?
For a woman at 5ft 8in with a BMI of 13.2 (Underweight), the underweight range is associated with increased risk of bone density loss and immune function decline. Regular check-ups and monitoring are recommended.
How common is a BMI of 13.2 for a 5ft 8in woman?
According to CDC data, about 1.5% of women have a BMI in the Underweight category. At 5ft 8in and 87lbs, your BMI of 13.2 is within this range.
How can a 5ft 8in woman maintain a healthy weight?
For a woman at 5ft 8in, maintaining weight around 121-163lbs is recommended. Focus on nutrient-dense foods and eat 5-6 smaller meals throughout the day rather than 3 large ones.
Is 87lbs overweight for a 5ft 8in woman?
For a 5ft 8in woman, 87lbs gives a BMI of 13.2, which is Underweight. This is below the CDC's healthy weight range of 18.5-24.9. Consider consulting a healthcare provider.

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๐Ÿ’ก About this calculation: BMI = (87 ร— 703) รท (68 ร— 68) = 13.2 | Metric: 172.7 cm, 39.5 kg

๐Ÿ“– Recommended reading:

Based on CDC and WHO adult BMI standards. This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.

Editorial Review: This page was generated by the BMI Calculator Web Editorial Team and reviewed at template and content-pool level for accuracy and guideline alignment by Dr. Sarah K. Johnson, PhD, RD. All content is aligned with current WHO, CDC, and NIH guidelines.

Published: 2026-08-14

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