1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women. The Mayo Clinic BMI calculator incorporates waist circumference for better assessment of health risks associated with body weight.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

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

Waist Circumference: For adults, waist circumference provides additional information about health risks:

• Men: >102 cm (40 in) indicates increased risk
• Women: >88 cm (35 in) indicates increased risk

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple screening tool for weight categories that may lead to health problems. Combined with waist measurement, it provides better assessment of health risks associated with excess body fat.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use Mayo Clinic BMI calculator?
A: The Mayo Clinic version incorporates waist circumference which provides additional information about fat distribution and associated health risks.

Q2: What are normal BMI values?
A: Normal BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9. Below 18.5 is underweight, 25-29.9 is overweight, and 30+ is obese.

Q3: 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 age, sex, or body composition differences.

Q4: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking every few months is sufficient unless you're actively trying to lose or gain weight.

Q5: Should children use this calculator?
A: No, children and teens need age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles rather than the adult categories.