1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measure that uses your height and weight to work out if your weight is healthy. The NHS uses BMI to assess whether adults and children are underweight, healthy weight, overweight or obese.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

For children, the BMI number is plotted on growth charts to determine the percentile for their age and sex.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI helps identify potential weight problems, though it's not diagnostic. It's a screening tool that can indicate whether further assessment is needed.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Measure weight in kilograms (kg)
• Measure height in meters (m)
• For adults, select "Adult" calculation type
• For children aged 2-19, select "Child" and enter age

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the NHS BMI ranges for adults?
A: Underweight (below 18.5), Healthy weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obese (30+).

Q2: How is child BMI different?
A: Child BMI is compared to growth charts for their age and sex to determine a percentile.

Q3: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so athletes may have high BMI without excess fat.

Q4: When should I see a doctor about my BMI?
A: If your BMI is outside the healthy range, or if you have concerns about your weight.

Q5: What's a healthy BMI for older adults?
A: For those over 65, a BMI between 23-29.9 may be healthier than lower ranges.