1. What is Body Mass Index (BMI)?

BMI is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity in adults. It is defined as a person's weight in kilograms divided by the square of their height in meters (kg/m²).

2. How Does the BMI Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• Weight — Measured in kilograms (kg)
• Height — Measured in meters (m)

Explanation: The formula calculates body mass per unit of surface area, providing a standardized way to compare body weights across different heights.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple screening tool that can indicate whether a person is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. These categories may indicate potential health risks.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. For accuracy, measure height without shoes and weight with minimal clothing.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the standard BMI categories?
A: Underweight (BMI < 18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obese (≥30).

Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in muscular individuals and underestimate it in older people who have lost muscle mass.

Q3: Should BMI be used for children?
A: No, children and teens need age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles rather than the adult categories.

Q4: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, and doesn't account for fat distribution which affects health risks.

Q5: What's a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy, but individual health factors should also be considered.