BMI Formula:
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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 is calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters.
The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:
Where:
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.
Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening tool for weight categories that may lead to health problems. It's used to identify possible weight problems in adults, though it's not a diagnostic tool.
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. Measure height without shoes.
Q1: What are the standard BMI categories?
A: Underweight (<18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obesity (≥30).
Q2: Is BMI different for men and women?
A: The same BMI ranges apply to both men and women, though body composition differs between genders.
Q3: What are 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 everyone?
A: BMI may not be accurate for athletes, pregnant women, the elderly, or those with unusual body compositions.
Q5: What's a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy, though individual factors should be considered.