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 useful population-level measure of overweight and obesity.

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 a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters.

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 more 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 before eating and after using the bathroom.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a healthy BMI range for women?
A: For adult women, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy.

Q2: Does BMI differ for men and women?
A: The BMI calculation is the same, but healthy ranges may vary slightly due to differences in body composition.

Q3: What are the limitations of 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.

Q4: Is BMI accurate for pregnant women?
A: No, BMI should not be used to assess weight status during pregnancy as it doesn't account for the growing fetus.

Q5: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking BMI every few months is sufficient unless you're actively trying to change your weight.