Understand screening metrics, energy estimates, and when an individual assessment matters.
A metric is not a diagnosis
BMI describes weight relative to height. It does not directly measure body fat, fitness, distribution of fat, or health. Athletes, pregnancy, age, and individual medical history can change how a number should be interpreted.
Energy needs are estimates
Calorie equations estimate resting energy and multiply it by an activity factor. Actual needs vary with body composition, daily movement, health, and measurement error. Trends over time are often more informative than one calculated target.
Know when to ask for help
Use a qualified clinician for symptoms, pregnancy concerns, eating disorders, chronic conditions, medication questions, or before major diet and exercise changes. Online calculators are educational tools and cannot examine you.