Ideal Body Mass Index Calculator

BMI Formula:

\[ BMI = \frac{weight (kg)}{[height (m)]^2} \]

Body Mass Index (BMI):

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1. What is Body Mass Index (BMI)?

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).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI formula:

\[ BMI = \frac{weight (kg)}{[height (m)]^2} \]

Where:

\( weight \) — Body weight in kilograms (kg)
\( height \) — Height in meters (m)

BMI Categories:

Underweight: BMI less than 18.5 kg/m²
Normal weight: BMI 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m²
Overweight: BMI 25 to 29.9 kg/m²
Obesity: BMI 30 kg/m² or greater

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

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.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kilograms and height in meters. For accurate results, measure your weight without heavy clothing and measure your height without shoes.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI may not accurately reflect body fat percentage in athletes (who have more muscle mass), the elderly (who may have lost muscle mass), or pregnant women.

Q2: How often should I check my BMI?
A: For most adults, checking BMI once every 6-12 months is sufficient unless you're actively trying to change your weight.

Q3: What's the difference between BMI and body fat percentage?
A: BMI is a simple weight-to-height ratio, while body fat percentage measures the actual amount of fat in your body. Body fat percentage provides a more accurate assessment of health risk.

Q4: Can children use this calculator?
A: This calculator is designed for adults. Children and teens need age and sex-specific percentile calculations for accurate assessment.

Q5: What is considered a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy and associated with the lowest health risks.