1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult women. It's a simple, widely-used screening tool to identify potential weight problems.

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 calculates body mass per unit of height squared, providing a standardized measure of body composition.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI helps assess whether a woman has a healthy body weight for her height. It's used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Is BMI accurate for all women?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in muscular women and underestimate it in older women with lost muscle mass.

Q3: What's a healthy BMI range for women?
A: Generally 18.5-24.9, though individual factors like muscle mass and frame size should be considered.

Q4: How often should I check my BMI?
A: Periodic checks (every 6-12 months) are sufficient unless you're actively trying to change your weight.

Q5: Does BMI account for fat distribution?
A: No, waist circumference should also be measured as abdominal fat carries higher health risks.