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 provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people.

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: BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in meters.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening tool for weight categories that may indicate health problems, though it doesn't directly measure body fat.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the standard BMI categories?
A: Underweight (<18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obesity (≥30).

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and underestimate it in older people who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: How often should BMI be calculated?
A: For adults, annual calculation is sufficient unless significant weight changes occur.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: BMI doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, or racial/sex differences.

Q5: Should children use the same BMI categories?
A: No, children's BMI is age- and sex-specific and should be plotted on growth charts.