1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) 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 a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their 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

Interpretation: The resulting number is compared against standard ranges to determine weight status.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

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

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For most accurate results, measure weight in the morning after using the bathroom and before eating.

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), Obese (≥30).

Q2: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so athletes may have high BMI without excess fat. It also doesn't account for fat distribution.

Q3: Is BMI different for children?
A: Yes, children's BMI is age and sex-specific and interpreted using percentile charts.

Q4: What's a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy, though optimal range may vary by ethnicity.

Q5: Should BMI be the only measure of healthy weight?
A: No, waist circumference, body fat percentage, and other measures should also be considered for a complete assessment.