1. What is Body Mass Index?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women. It is a simple, inexpensive screening method for weight categories that may lead to health problems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard BMI formula:

Where:

• \( weight_{kg} \) — Weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( height_{m} \) — Height in meters (m)

Explanation: BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in meters. The result indicates whether a person has a healthy body weight for their height.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. Ensure accurate measurements for precise results. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the 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 not be accurate for athletes, pregnant women, the elderly, or children as it doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat mass.

Q3: What is a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy.

Q4: Can BMI be used for children?
A: BMI calculations for children and teens are interpreted differently, using age and sex-specific percentile charts.

Q5: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, or racial and sex differences.