1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) 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 quick tool to assess whether someone is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.

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 by the square of your height to give a standardized measure of body fatness.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI provides a simple numeric measure that helps identify potential weight problems in adults. While it doesn't measure body fat directly, research has shown it correlates with more direct measures of body fat.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For accurate results, measure weight in the morning before eating and after using the bathroom. Stand straight when measuring height.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Does BMI apply to everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and underestimate it in older people who have lost muscle mass. It's not used for children - growth charts are used instead.

Q3: How can I lower my BMI?
A: Through a combination of healthy eating (calorie control) and regular physical activity. Aim for gradual weight loss of 0.5-1 kg per week.

Q4: Should I use BMI if I'm pregnant?
A: No, BMI calculations aren't valid during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider for appropriate weight guidance.

Q5: What's better than BMI for measuring health?
A: While BMI is useful for population studies, waist circumference and body fat percentage may give better individual health assessments when combined with other measures.