Obesity is a driving force behind metabolic syndrome. Although the body mass index (BMI), a calculation based on height and weight, is used to measure a person’s “desirable” weight, it is not always accurate. Athletic people with well-developed muscles have a BMI higher than normal because muscle weighs more than fat. Waist circumference is often a more accurate measurement of excess weight that is detrimental to a person’s health.
Measure your waist circumference
Accumulation of weight around and above the waist (apple-shaped) rather than the hips and buttocks (pear-shaped) increases a person’s risk for metabolic syndrome.
To accurately measure your waist:
• Place a tape measure around your bare abdomen just above your hipbone.
• The tape measure should be snug — but not so tight it pushes into your skin.
• Check to make sure the tape measure is level all the way around.
• Relax, and measure your waist after you breathe out — no sucking in your belly!
Source: Mayo Clinic
Metabolic syndrome waist measurements • Women: > 35 inches • Men: > 40 inches
Are you “apple-shaped” or “pear-shaped?” To find out, click here.
