1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems. It's a quick tool to estimate body fatness.

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 divides your weight by the square of your height to give a standardized measure of body size.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI helps healthcare professionals screen for potential weight problems in adults. While it doesn't measure body fat directly, research has shown it correlates with direct measures of 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.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is BMI different for men and women?
A: The calculation is the same, but interpretation may vary slightly as men typically have more muscle mass than women.

Q2: What are normal BMI values?
A: For adults: Underweight (<18.5), Normal (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obese (≥30).

Q3: When is BMI not accurate?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes/muscular individuals and underestimate it in older adults who have lost muscle.

Q4: Should BMI be used alone for health assessment?
A: No, it should be used with other measurements like waist circumference and overall health evaluation.

Q5: How often should I check my BMI?
A: Periodic checks (every 6-12 months) can help track changes, but frequent measurements aren't necessary unless making significant lifestyle changes.