1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight to assess weight status. 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

Interpretation: The result is compared against standard categories:

• Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
• Healthy weight: BMI 18.5 to 24.9
• Overweight: BMI 25 to 29.9
• Obese: BMI 30 or greater

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a quick screening tool to identify potential weight problems in adults. While it doesn't measure body fat directly, research has shown BMI correlates with direct measures of body fat.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For height in centimeters, divide by 100 (e.g., 175 cm = 1.75 m). All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and those with muscular build, and underestimate it in older persons who have lost muscle mass.

Q2: What is a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy. However, optimal BMI may vary by age, sex, and ethnicity.

Q3: Should children use this calculator?
A: No, children and teens need age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles rather than adult categories.

Q4: Are there better measures than BMI?
A: Waist circumference and body fat percentage may provide additional information, but BMI remains the most widely used screening tool.

Q5: How often should I check my BMI?
A: Periodic checks (e.g., annually) can help track changes, but frequent measurements aren't necessary unless actively managing weight.