Check whether your waist size puts your health at risk. The goal is simple: keep your waist to less than half your height.
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NICE waist-to-height ratio bands
| Ratio | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 0.4 to 0.49 | Healthy: no increased health risks |
| 0.5 to 0.59 | Increased central fat: increased health risks |
| 0.6 or more | High central fat: further increased health risks |
Fat around the middle is linked to type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. NICE recommends using waist-to-height ratio alongside BMI for adults with a BMI under 35, because BMI alone can miss fat stored around the organs.
How to measure your waist
- Find the bottom of your ribs and the top of your hips.
- Wrap a tape measure around your waist midway between them, which is usually just above the belly button.
- Breathe out naturally and read the tape.
- Use the same units for waist and height.
The bands apply to men and women of all ethnicities, and to children aged 5 and over.
Frequently asked questions
What is a healthy waist-to-height ratio?
Under 0.5. For example, if you’re 170 cm tall, aim for a waist under 85 cm.
Is it better than BMI?
It’s a better guide to fat around the middle. NICE suggests using both.
Does it work for children?
Yes, NICE uses the same bands for children aged 5 and over.
What should I do if mine is high?
Talk to your GP or practice nurse, who can check your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol.
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