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BMI Formula:
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Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, 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).
The calculator uses the standard 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 provides a simple numeric measure of a person's thickness or thinness, allowing health professionals to discuss weight problems more objectively with their patients. It is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.
Tips: Enter your weight in kilograms and height in meters. For accurate results, measure your weight without heavy clothing and height without shoes. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).
Q1: What is a healthy BMI range?
A: For adults, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy. Below 18.5 is underweight, 25-29.9 is overweight, and 30 or above indicates obesity.
Q2: Are there limitations to BMI?
A: Yes, BMI doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, and racial and sex differences. Athletes with high muscle mass may have a high BMI but not be overweight.
Q3: Is BMI applicable to children?
A: BMI is calculated differently for children and teens, taking into account age and sex-specific percentiles rather than fixed categories.
Q4: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking BMI every few months is sufficient unless you're actively trying to change your weight. Significant weight changes warrant more frequent monitoring.
Q5: Should BMI be the only measure of health?
A: No, BMI should be used as a screening tool but not as a diagnostic of body fatness or health. Waist circumference, diet, physical activity, and other health markers should also be considered.