1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, overweight and obesity in adults. It is defined as the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in meters.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: BMI provides a simple numeric measure of a person's thickness or thinness, allowing health professionals to discuss weight problems more objectively with their patients.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is an inexpensive and easy-to-perform method of screening for weight categories that may lead to health problems. It is used to identify possible 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). For most adults, an ideal BMI is in the 18.5 to 24.9 range.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the BMI categories?
A: Underweight (<18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obesity (≥30).

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may not be accurate for athletes (muscle weighs more than fat), pregnant women, the elderly, or children.

Q3: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking BMI every few months is sufficient unless you're actively trying to lose or gain weight.

Q4: Does BMI measure body fat?
A: BMI doesn't directly measure body fat but correlates with direct measures of body fat like skinfold thickness measurements.

Q5: Should children use this calculator?
A: Children and teens need BMI-for-age percentiles that consider age and sex differences in body fat.