1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. It provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms
• \( height \) — Height in meters

Explanation: BMI correlates fairly well with body fat in most people, though it doesn't measure body fat directly.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is an inexpensive and easy screening method for weight category—underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. For most adults, BMI provides a good estimate of weight-related health risks.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For accuracy, measure weight without heavy clothing and height without shoes. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a healthy BMI range for adult females?
A: For adult females, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy.

Q2: Does BMI differ for males and females?
A: The same BMI categories apply to both adult males and females, though body composition differs between genders.

Q3: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and those with muscular builds, and underestimate body fat in older persons who have lost muscle mass.

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

Q5: Should BMI be the only measure of health?
A: No, BMI should be used along with other measures like waist circumference and overall health assessment.