1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. It provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( height \) — Height in meters (m)

Explanation: BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in meters.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening method for weight category - underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. It helps identify potential weight problems in adults.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered an anorexic BMI?
A: Generally, a BMI below 17.5 may indicate anorexia nervosa, but diagnosis requires comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Q2: What are normal BMI values?
A: Normal BMI ranges from 18.5 to 24.9. Below 18.5 is underweight, 25-29.9 is overweight, and 30+ is obese.

Q3: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: BMI doesn't directly measure body fat and may misclassify muscular individuals as overweight or older individuals with muscle loss as healthy weight.

Q4: Should BMI be used alone for diagnosis?
A: No, BMI should be used as a screening tool along with other assessments like waist circumference, diet history, and physical examination.

Q5: How often should BMI be checked?
A: For individuals with weight concerns, BMI can be monitored monthly. For general population, annual check is sufficient.