1. What is Ideal Body Weight?

Ideal Body Weight (IBW) is an estimate of healthy weight range based on height and gender. The Devine formula is commonly used in medical settings for drug dosing and nutritional assessment.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Devine formula:

Where:

• Height — Measured in inches (1 inch = 2.54 cm)
• 50 kg — Base weight for males at 5 feet (60 inches)
• 45.5 kg — Base weight for females at 5 feet (60 inches)
• 2.3 kg — Weight added per inch over 5 feet

Explanation: The formula assumes a linear relationship between height and weight beyond 5 feet, with different base weights for males and females.

3. Importance of IBW Calculation

Details: IBW is used clinically for drug dosing (especially for medications with narrow therapeutic windows), nutritional assessment, and determining weight goals.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter height in inches (convert from feet/inches: 5'7" = (5×12)+7 = 67 inches). Select gender for appropriate formula application.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why are there different formulas for males and females?
A: The formulas account for typical differences in body composition between genders, with males generally having more muscle mass at the same height.

Q2: How accurate is the Devine formula?
A: It provides a rough estimate. Other formulas (like Hamwi or Robinson) may be more accurate for certain populations. Clinical judgment is always needed.

Q3: What about people shorter than 5 feet?
A: The formula may underestimate IBW for very short individuals. Alternative methods may be needed in these cases.

Q4: Should IBW be used for obesity assessment?
A: IBW is less useful for obesity classification than BMI. It's primarily used for drug dosing and nutritional planning.

Q5: How does age factor into IBW?
A: The Devine formula doesn't account for age. Elderly individuals may have different body composition that isn't reflected in this calculation.