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 provides a simple numeric measure of a person's thickness or thinness.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The formula divides a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening method for weight category - underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. It correlates moderately well with body fat percentage.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0). For height in centimeters, divide by 100 to convert to meters.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat mass, so athletes may have high BMI without excess fat. It may underestimate body fat in older people.

Q3: Is BMI the same for children?
A: No, children's BMI is age and sex-specific and interpreted using growth charts.

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

Q5: Should BMI be used alone for health assessment?
A: No, BMI should be considered alongside other measurements like waist circumference and overall health assessment.