Measurements
Why This Matters
Research published in Obesity Reviews (2012) and validated in subsequent meta-analyses shows that waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) is a better predictor of cardiovascular and metabolic risk than BMI alone. The "keep your waist less than half your height" rule is simple, requires no scale, and works across ethnicities and ages.
How It Works
WHtR Research: Waist-to-height ratio has been shown to predict cardiovascular risk better than BMI in multiple meta-analyses. The "keep your waist less than half your height" rule works across ethnicities and ages.
How to Use: Measure your waist at the navel level (men) or narrowest point (women). Divide by your height in the same units. A ratio under 0.5 indicates low metabolic risk.
Categories: <0.40 = Low Risk, 0.40-0.46 = Moderate, 0.46-0.50 = Increased Risk, >0.50 = High Risk.
Tips: Measure at the same time of day, after exhaling normally. Do not suck in your stomach. Use a non-stretch tape.
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