1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems. It's a useful tool for weight loss tracking and general health assessment.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

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

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 a quick screening tool for weight categories that may lead to health problems. While it doesn't measure body fat directly, research has shown that BMI correlates with more direct measures of body fat.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For pounds and inches, convert first (1 kg = 2.2 lbs, 1 m = 39.37 inches). All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and underestimate it in older people who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: What's a healthy BMI for weight loss?
A: For most adults, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy.

Q4: How often should I check my BMI?
A: Monthly checks are sufficient for tracking weight loss progress.

Q5: Should children use this calculator?
A: No, children and teens need age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles.