1. What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity in adults. It is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BMI formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: 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.

3. Importance of BMI Calculation

Details: BMI is a simple, inexpensive screening tool for weight category—underweight, normal or healthy weight, overweight, and obesity. It correlates moderately well with direct measures of body fat.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in meters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the BMI categories for women?
A: Underweight (<18.5), Normal weight (18.5-24.9), Overweight (25-29.9), Obesity (≥30).

Q2: Is BMI different for women than men?
A: The same BMI ranges apply to both women and men, though women tend to have more body fat than men at the same BMI.

Q3: What are limitations of BMI?
A: BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat, so athletes may have high BMI without excess fat. It also doesn't account for fat distribution.

Q4: Is BMI accurate for all women?
A: BMI may be less accurate for very tall or short women, pregnant women, and those with significant muscle mass.

Q5: What's a healthy BMI range for women?
A: For most women, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy, though individual factors should be considered.