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:
BMI Categories:
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 weight in kilograms, height in meters, and optionally age. For accurate results, measure weight and height precisely. The age field is included for potential future percentile calculations in children.
Q1: Is BMI accurate for everyone?
A: BMI provides a general indicator of body fatness for most people but may not be accurate for athletes with high muscle mass, pregnant women, or the elderly.
Q2: How often should I calculate my BMI?
A: For most adults, calculating BMI once every few months is sufficient unless you're actively trying to change your weight.
Q3: Does BMI differ for children?
A: Yes, BMI interpretation for children and teens considers age and sex-specific percentiles rather than the fixed categories used for adults.
Q4: What are the limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so it may overestimate body fat in athletes and underestimate it in older people who have lost muscle mass.
Q5: Should I be concerned if my BMI is outside the normal range?
A: While BMI is a useful screening tool, it's not diagnostic. Consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive health assessment.