1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, overweight and obesity in adults. It is defined as the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in meters (kg/m²).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI formula:

Where:

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

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 provides a simple numeric measure of a person's thickness or thinness, allowing health professionals to discuss weight problems more objectively with their patients.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0). For pounds and inches, convert to metric units first.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a healthy BMI range?
A: For adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered normal weight. 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 accurate for athletes (high muscle mass), pregnant women, children, or the elderly. Other measures may be needed.

Q3: What does BMI > 35 indicate?
A: A BMI over 35 kg/m² indicates Class II obesity, which is associated with significant health risks including diabetes and heart disease.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, and doesn't account for fat distribution which affects health risks.

Q5: Should BMI be the only measure of health?
A: No, BMI should be considered alongside other measures like waist circumference, body fat percentage, and overall health assessment.