1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, normal weight, 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
• \( height \) — Height in meters

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

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is an inexpensive and easy screening method for weight category—underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity. It correlates fairly well with body fat in most people.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0). For women, BMI categories may need to be interpreted slightly differently than for men.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a healthy BMI range for women?
A: For most women, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy. However, this may vary slightly based on body composition.

Q2: Does BMI differ between men and women?
A: The BMI formula is the same, but women tend to have more body fat than men at the same BMI.

Q3: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, and racial/ethnic differences. Athletes may have a high BMI due to muscle rather than fat.

Q4: Is BMI accurate for pregnant women?
A: No, BMI should not be calculated during pregnancy as weight gain is expected and necessary for fetal development.

Q5: Should elderly women use the same BMI ranges?
A: Older women may have slightly higher optimal BMI ranges (up to 27) as some extra weight can be protective against osteoporosis.