1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity in adults.

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 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. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may not accurately reflect body fat in athletes (high muscle mass), elderly (loss of muscle mass), or certain ethnic groups.

Q3: What are limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, and doesn't account for fat distribution which affects health risks.

Q4: Should children use this calculator?
A: No, children and teens need age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles rather than these adult categories.

Q5: What's a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy, though optimal may vary by individual factors.