1. What is BMI (Body Mass Index)?

Definition: BMI is a numerical value calculated from weight and height that provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people.

Purpose: It's used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems but is not diagnostic of body fatness or health.

2. How Does the BMI Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Weight \) — Body weight in kilograms
• \( Height \) — Height in meters

Explanation: Your weight is divided by the square of your height to calculate your BMI score.

3. BMI Categories (Updated 2023)

Details:

• Underweight: BMI < 18.5
• Normal weight: BMI 18.5-24.9
• Overweight: BMI 25-29.9
• Obesity Class I: BMI 30-34.9
• Obesity Class II: BMI 35-39.9
• Obesity Class III: BMI ≥ 40

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your weight in kilograms and height in meters. For pounds and inches, convert first (1 kg = 2.2 lbs, 1 m = 39.37 inches).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's new in the 2023 BMI update?
A: The categories remain the same, but interpretation now considers ethnic differences in body composition.

Q2: Is BMI accurate for athletes?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in muscular individuals as it doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat.

Q3: What's a healthy BMI range?
A: For most adults, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered healthy, but consult your doctor for personalized advice.

Q4: Can children use this calculator?
A: No, children and teens need age- and sex-specific BMI percentiles.

Q5: What are BMI limitations?
A: BMI doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, overall body composition, or racial/sex differences.