1. What is BMI?

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a measure that uses your height and weight to work out if your weight is healthy. The NHS Choices BMI calculator gives you an estimate of whether you're underweight, a healthy weight, overweight, or obese.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight \) — Your weight in kilograms
• \( height \) — Your height in meters

Explanation: The formula divides your weight by the square of your height to give a number that indicates whether your weight is appropriate for your height.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple way to screen for potential weight problems in adults. While it doesn't directly measure body fat, it correlates with direct measures of body fat and offers a quick assessment of weight-related health risks.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kilograms and height in meters. For most accurate results, measure your height without shoes and weigh yourself in the morning before eating.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may not be accurate for athletes (who have more muscle), pregnant women, or people with certain medical conditions.

Q3: What should I do if my BMI is outside the healthy range?
A: Consult with your GP or healthcare professional for advice tailored to your individual circumstances.

Q4: Can children use this calculator?
A: No, children and teens need age- and sex-specific BMI calculations as their bodies change rapidly during growth.

Q5: Where can I get more information?
A: Visit the official NHS Choices website for comprehensive information about BMI and healthy weight management.