1. What is BMI for Women?

Definition: Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult women.

Purpose: The CDC uses BMI to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.

2. How Does the BMI Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( BMI \) — Body Mass Index (kg/m²)
• \( W \) — Weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( H \) — Height in meters (m)

Explanation: Your weight in kilograms is divided by the square of your height in meters.

3. CDC BMI Categories for Women

Details:

• Underweight: BMI < 18.5
• Normal weight: 18.5 ≤ BMI < 25
• Overweight: 25 ≤ BMI < 30
• Obesity: BMI ≥ 30

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: Is BMI different for women than men?
A: The same formula is used, but women typically have higher body fat percentages at the same BMI.

Q2: What's a healthy BMI range for women?
A: According to CDC, 18.5 to 24.9 is considered normal weight.

Q3: Does BMI account for muscle mass?
A: No, BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat. Athletic women may have higher BMIs without excess fat.

Q4: How accurate is BMI for older women?
A: BMI may overestimate body fat in older women who have lost muscle mass.

Q5: Should pregnant women use BMI?
A: BMI calculations aren't valid during pregnancy as weight gain is expected.