1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, overweight and obesity in adults. It is calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI formula:

Example calculation for 70 kg and 1.75 m height:

• Weight = 70 kg
• Height = 1.75 m
• BMI = 70 / (1.75 × 1.75) = 22.86 kg/m²

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. For example, 70 kg and 1.75 m would give a BMI of 22.86 kg/m².

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a healthy BMI range?
A: For adults, 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 apply to everyone?
A: BMI may not be accurate for athletes (who may have high muscle mass), pregnant women, or the elderly who may have lost muscle mass.

Q3: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking BMI every few months is sufficient unless you're actively trying to lose or gain weight.

Q4: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, and doesn't account for fat distribution which may affect health risks.

Q5: Should children use this calculator?
A: Children's BMI is interpreted differently using age- and sex-specific percentiles, not the adult categories.