1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. The formula is BMI = kg/m² where kg is a person's weight in kilograms and m² is their height in meters squared. It provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard 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 method for weight category—underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. It's used to identify potential weight problems in adults.

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 interpretation may differ slightly from men.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Does BMI differ for women and men?
A: The calculation is the same, but women typically have more body fat than men at the same BMI.

Q3: What are BMI limitations?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so athletes may have high BMI without excess fat. It also doesn't account for fat distribution.

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

Q5: Should older women use the same BMI ranges?
A: Slightly higher BMI (up to 27) may be acceptable for older women as some extra weight can be protective.