1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measure that uses your height and weight to determine 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 estimate body fatness and health risks associated with different weight categories.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI helps identify potential weight-related health problems. While not a direct measure of body fat, it correlates with more direct measures and can indicate risk for diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.

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 with minimal clothing.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the NHS BMI categories?
A: Underweight (below 18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obese (30 and above).

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

Q3: Should children use this calculator?
A: No, children need age and sex-specific BMI charts as their body composition changes with growth.

Q4: What if I know my weight in stones/pounds?
A: Convert to kilograms first (1 stone = 6.35kg, 1 pound = 0.45kg).

Q5: What should I do if my BMI is outside the normal range?
A: Consult your GP for personalized advice. BMI is just one indicator of health.