What are the limitations of the BMI calculator?

While a body mass index calculator is a useful and quick screening tool, it has important limitations. It doesn't distinguish between fat, muscle, and bone mass, all of which contribute to a person's weight. This means a very muscular athlete might have a BMI in the 'overweight' or 'obese' category despite having very low body fat. Other limitations include the fact it doesn't indicate where fat is located on the body or account for factors like age, gender, and ethnicity, which can influence health risks. For a complete health picture, consider your BMI alongside other factors like diet, physical activity, and results from a physical exam, ideally with the help of a healthcare provider.