1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure that uses your height and weight to determine if your weight is healthy. The NHS uses BMI as a screening tool to identify potential weight problems in adults.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: 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.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems. While it doesn't measure body fat directly, research has shown that BMI correlates with direct measures of body fat.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kilograms and height in meters. For most accurate results, measure your height without shoes and weight in light clothing.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the NHS BMI categories?
A: Underweight (below 18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obese (30 and above).

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in athletes and those with muscular builds, and underestimate it in older persons who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: Should children use this calculator?
A: No, children and teens need age- and sex-specific BMI calculations as their body composition varies with age and differs between sexes.

Q4: What's a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy. However, individual health assessments should consider other factors.

Q5: What should I do if my BMI is high?
A: Consult with your GP who can assess other risk factors and help develop a weight management plan if needed.