How can I use a tape measure to check my health like the study suggests?

Measure your waist circumference and your height. Divide your waist measurement by your height; if the ratio is less than half, it's a good indicator of a healthy weight.

Why is BMI considered less accurate than waist-to-height ratio?

BMI doesn't distinguish between muscle and fat mass. This can misclassify individuals like athletes or older adults, whereas waist-to-height ratio better reflects visceral fat levels.

What are the health risks associated with visceral fat mentioned in the study?

Visceral fat, stored around vital organs, is linked to an increased risk of serious health issues, including heart disease and stroke.

Home / Health / Tape Measure Trumps BMI for Health Check

Tape Measure Trumps BMI for Health Check

5 Jan

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Summary

Waist-to-height ratio offers a better health indicator than BMI.
Visceral fat around organs poses significant health risks.
Tape measures are a cheaper, more accessible health tool.

Tape Measure Trumps BMI for Health Check

New research indicates that the waist-to-height ratio is a significantly better health indicator than the commonly used Body Mass Index (BMI). By using a simple tape measure, individuals can better assess the amount of fat stored around their vital organs, a critical factor in determining the risk of developing serious conditions like heart disease and stroke.

Experts recommend that a waist circumference less than half a person's height signifies a healthy weight. This measurement is particularly beneficial for older adults who may lose muscle mass, leading to a lower BMI despite an increase in body fat percentage. The waist-to-height ratio provides a more accurate reflection of visceral fat, which has a greater impact on bodily functions.

The study, published in the International Journal of Obesity and involving data from the Health Survey for England, also highlighted the influence of environmental factors on obesity. The researchers found that a tape measure is not only more accurate but also a more economical and user-friendly tool for health monitoring than BMI scales.