1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure that uses your height and weight to work out if your weight is healthy. The BMI calculation divides an adult's weight in kilograms by their height in meters squared.

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 useful screening tool to identify potential weight problems in adults. However, it should not be used as a diagnostic tool as it doesn't directly measure body fat.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kilograms and height in meters. For most adults, an ideal BMI is in the 18.5 to 24.9 range.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is healthy. Below 18.5 is underweight, 25-29.9 is overweight, and 30+ is obese.

Q2: Does BMI apply to everyone?
A: BMI may not be suitable for athletes (who may have high muscle mass), pregnant women, children, or the elderly.

Q3: How accurate is BMI?
A: BMI is a useful screening tool but doesn't measure body fat directly. Other measurements like waist circumference may provide additional information.

Q4: Should children use this calculator?
A: No, children's BMI is interpreted differently using age and sex-specific percentile charts.

Q5: Where can I get more advice about my weight?
A: Consult your GP or visit the NHS website for more information and advice about healthy weight management.