Frequently Asked Questions

BMI is categorized as follows:

• Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
• Normal weight: BMI 18.5-24.9
• Overweight: BMI 25-29.9
• Obese: BMI 30 or greater

BMI is a useful screening tool but has limitations. It may not be accurate for:

• Athletes with high muscle mass
• Elderly individuals who have lost muscle mass
• Pregnant women
• People with certain medical conditions

Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized health advice.

For most adults, checking your BMI every 3-6 months is sufficient if you're maintaining your weight. If you're actively trying to lose or gain weight, you might check it monthly. Remember that weight fluctuations are normal, so focus on long-term trends rather than daily changes.

If your BMI indicates you're underweight or overweight:

• Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice
• Focus on balanced nutrition with whole foods
• Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine
• Set realistic goals and make gradual changes
• Consider working with a registered dietitian or certified personal trainer

The BMI calculation and categories are the same for both men and women. However, body composition differs between genders - men typically have more muscle mass while women have more body fat. This means that at the same BMI, men might have a lower body fat percentage than women.

This calculator is designed for adults (18+ years). Children and teenagers should use age- and sex-specific BMI percentile charts, as their body composition changes as they grow. Consult a pediatrician for assessing a child's weight status.

BMI is just one health indicator. Consider also tracking:

• Waist circumference (measures abdominal fat)
• Blood pressure
• Cholesterol levels
• Blood sugar levels
• Physical fitness level
• Overall lifestyle factors (diet, exercise, sleep, stress)