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Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation using a person's height and weight. The formula is BMI = kg/m² where kg is a person's weight in kilograms and m² is their height in meters squared. 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.
The calculator uses the BMI formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates body mass index by dividing weight by the square of height, providing a standardized measurement of body composition.
Details: BMI is widely used as a screening tool to identify possible weight problems in adults. It helps healthcare professionals assess whether individuals are underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese, which can indicate potential health risks.
Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. Ensure accurate measurements for reliable results. For height, you can convert from centimeters to meters by dividing by 100 (e.g., 175 cm = 1.75 m).
Q1: What are the standard BMI categories?
A: Underweight (BMI < 18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obesity (BMI ≥ 30).
Q2: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may not be accurate for athletes with high muscle mass, pregnant women, children, or the elderly as it doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat.
Q3: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For general monitoring, checking every 3-6 months is sufficient unless you're actively trying to change your weight.
Q4: What's the difference between BMI and body fat percentage?
A: BMI estimates body fat based on height and weight, while body fat percentage directly measures fat mass. Body fat percentage is more accurate but requires special equipment.
Q5: Can BMI be used for children?
A: BMI calculations for children and teens are interpreted differently using age and sex-specific percentile charts, not the standard adult categories.