The Hamwi Formula
Created by Dr. GJ Hamwi in 1964, this formula provides a quick method for estimating ideal body weight. It's particularly popular among dietitians and nutritionists for determining caloric needs and setting weight goals.
The Formula
For men: IBW = 48 kg + 2.7 kg per inch over 5 feet
For women: IBW = 45.5 kg + 2.2 kg per inch over 5 feet
Note the different increments per inch compared to the Devine formula.
Clinical Applications
Hamwi is commonly used in nutrition assessment, determining caloric requirements for tube feeding, setting realistic weight loss goals, and adjusting for frame size (±10% for small/large frames).
Quick Tips
- BMI alone doesn't reflect overall health
- TDEE varies based on activity level
- Consult a healthcare professional for medical decisions
Frequently Asked Questions
Different increments per inch (2.7/2.2 vs 2.3/2.3), resulting in slightly different estimates.
Both are similar. Many clinicians average multiple formulas for best estimate.
Yes, subtract 10% for small frame, add 10% for large frame.
Yes, commonly used by dietitians for nutritional assessments.
1964, making it older than Devine but still widely used today.