1. What is BMI?

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula provides a simple numeric measure of a person's thickness or thinness, allowing health professionals to discuss weight problems objectively with their patients.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is an important screening tool for weight categories that may lead to health problems. For New Zealand women, BMI is particularly relevant as obesity rates are higher among women (32%) compared to men (27%) according to recent health surveys.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kilograms and height in meters. For best results, measure your height without shoes and weight with minimal clothing. The calculator is specifically designed for adult women in New Zealand.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Is BMI different for women and men?
A: The same BMI ranges apply to both genders, but women tend to have more body fat than men at the same BMI.

Q3: What is a healthy BMI for New Zealand women?
A: The healthy range is 18.5-24.9, though some experts suggest 23-25 may be optimal for Pacific women.

Q4: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so muscular individuals may be classified as overweight. It also doesn't account for fat distribution.

Q5: Should pregnant women use this calculator?
A: No, BMI calculations during pregnancy are not meaningful as weight gain is expected and necessary.