1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measure that uses your height and weight to work out if your weight is healthy. The NHS uses BMI as a screening tool to identify potential weight problems in adults.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Your weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( height \) — Your height in meters (m)

Explanation: BMI compares your weight to your height to calculate whether you're a healthy weight for your height.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI helps identify if you're underweight, healthy weight, overweight, or obese. This can indicate potential health risks associated with being under or overweight.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: Yes, BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat. Very muscular people may have high BMI without excess fat.

Q3: Should children use this calculator?
A: No, children need age and sex-specific BMI charts. This calculator is for adults only.

Q4: What about pregnant women?
A: BMI calculations during pregnancy aren't meaningful. Use pre-pregnancy weight instead.

Q5: Where can I get more NHS advice about my BMI?
A: Visit the NHS website or consult your GP for personalized health advice.