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 defined as the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in meters (kg/m²).

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 calculation provides a number that is then interpreted based on age-specific cutoffs for the Filipino population.

3. BMI Classification in the Philippines

For adults (20+ years):

• Underweight: BMI < 18.5
• Normal weight: BMI 18.5-22.9
• Overweight (increased risk): BMI 23-27.4
• Obese (high risk): BMI ≥ 27.5

For children and teens: BMI percentiles specific to age and gender should be used rather than fixed cutoffs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Measure weight in light clothing without shoes
• Measure height without shoes
• For children, consult a pediatrician for interpretation
• BMI is a screening tool, not a diagnostic measure

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are the BMI cutoffs different for Filipinos?
A: Yes, the WHO recommends lower BMI cutoffs for Asian populations due to higher body fat percentage at lower BMIs.

Q2: Is BMI accurate for athletes?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in muscular individuals and underestimate it in older people with less muscle mass.

Q3: What is a healthy BMI for Filipino adults?
A: For Filipinos, a BMI between 18.5-22.9 is considered healthy, with 23+ indicating increased risk.

Q4: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For adults, checking every 6-12 months is reasonable unless monitoring weight changes.

Q5: Where can I find pediatric BMI charts for Filipinos?
A: The FNRI (Food and Nutrition Research Institute) provides age-specific growth charts for Filipino children.