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 calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared.

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

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is an inexpensive and easy screening method for weight category—underweight, healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. For most people, BMI correlates with body fat, though it doesn't directly measure body fat.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For accurate results, measure weight without heavy clothing and height without shoes. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Is BMI different for women and men?
A: The same BMI ranges apply to both women and men. However, women tend to have more body fat than men at the same BMI.

Q3: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, or racial and sex differences.

Q4: Is BMI accurate for athletes?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and others with muscular builds, as muscle weighs more than fat.

Q5: What's a healthy BMI for women?
A: For most women, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy, though individual factors should be considered.