BMI Formula:
From: | To: |
BMI (Body Mass Index) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight to assess body weight relative to height. It provides a numeric value that helps categorize individuals as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.
The calculator uses the BMI formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula divides a person's weight by the square of their height to produce a value that correlates with body fatness.
Details: BMI is a quick screening tool to identify potential weight problems in adults. It helps assess risk for weight-related health problems and is used by healthcare professionals worldwide.
Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For accuracy, measure height without shoes and weight with minimal clothing.
Q1: What do BMI values mean?
A: Underweight (<18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obesity (≥30).
Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in muscular individuals and underestimate it in older people with less muscle mass.
Q3: Can BMI be used for children?
A: Children's BMI is interpreted differently using age- and sex-specific percentiles rather than fixed categories.
Q4: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: Doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, doesn't account for fat distribution, and may vary by ethnicity.
Q5: Should BMI be the only measure of health?
A: No, it should be used alongside other measurements like waist circumference and overall health assessments.