I’m sure most of us already know that a big waist = bad, but this study caught my eye due to;
a) The sheer size of it (300,000 + participants)
and
b) That these findings were independent of body mass index (BMI). Here are some more details of the study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
The risk of premature death was approximately double for subjects with a larger waist versus those with a smaller waist. A larger waist for men was more than 47.2″ (120cm) and for women it was more than 39.4″ (100cm). A smaller waist for men was less than 31.5″ (80cm) and for women, it was and less than 25.6″ (65cm).Each 2.5″ (5cm) increase in waist circumference increased the mortality risk by 17% in men and 13% in women. The waist to hip ratio was also revealed as an important indicator of health in the study. The smaller the waist relative to the hips, the better.Why it’s not good to have a Big Waist
A fat belly is usually indicative of a fat liver. When the liver has excess fat, it makes it difficult to perform its many functions. The researchers in the study point out that fatty tissue in this area causes the release of hormones and inflammatory markers which can lead to chronic disease.
Waist Measurement: Major Indicator, Minor Expense
A cloth tape measure costs very little and measuring your waist and hips is relatively easy. Here are some quick instructions on how to do it.
Waist:
Measure the narrowest portion of the waist (usually just below the lowest ribs). This area should be unclothed
Pull the tape firmly (but not tightly) around the waist, ensuring that there are no “bubbles” in the tape.
Take a normal breath in and out – take note of number upon exhalation.
Use a mirror to ensure tape is not crooked.
Women: Measurement should be less than 35″
Men: Less then 40″
Hips:
With feet together, wrap tape around largest part of buttocks and take note of number. Be sure tape is not crooked.
Calculating waist to hip ratio:
Example: Waist 38, Hips 41. 38/41 = .93
Women: Waist to hip ratio should be less than .82
Men: Waist to hip ratio should be less than .94
Sources:
Eureka Alerts
ACSM’s Guidelines for Testing and Exercise Prescription. 2000
More like this in Science and Tips and Tools Nov 14, 2008
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