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 body weight divided by the square of the body height.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula calculates body mass per unit of surface area, providing a standardized way to compare body weights across different heights.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple screening tool that can indicate whether a person is underweight, at a healthy weight, overweight, or obese. It helps assess potential health risks associated with different weight categories.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0). For pounds and inches, convert first (1 kg = 2.2 lbs, 1 m = 39.37 inches).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and underestimate it in older people who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: What is a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy.

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

Q5: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, and doesn't account for fat distribution.