1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measure that uses your height and weight to determine if your weight is healthy. The NHS England calculator is specifically calibrated for women's 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: The formula divides your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared to give your BMI score.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI helps identify potential weight problems in adults. For women, maintaining a healthy BMI is particularly important for reproductive health, bone density, and reducing risks of weight-related diseases.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kilograms and height in meters. For accurate results, measure your height without shoes and weight in light clothing.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the NHS England BMI categories for women?
A: Underweight (<18.5), Healthy weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obese (30+).

Q2: Is BMI different for women than men?
A: The calculation is the same, but healthy ranges may differ slightly due to body composition differences.

Q3: When should I measure my BMI?
A: Best measured in the morning before eating. Avoid measuring during menstruation when water retention may affect weight.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat. Athletic women may have higher BMI without excess fat.

Q5: What should I do if my BMI is outside the healthy range?
A: Consult your GP or NHS weight management services for personalized advice.