Why do I need to measure my waist circumference in the PreventScripts Program?
Waist circumference is a measure of the size of your waistline and is an indicator of the amount of abdominal fat you carry. Abdominal or visceral fat is associated with increased health risks such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and some types of cancer.
Having a larger waist circumference can be an indicator of increased abdominal fat, and can thus be a risk factor for the health problems mentioned above. However, the specific waist circumference cut-offs that indicate increased health risk may differ depending on factors such as age, gender, and ethnicity.
As a general guide, a waist circumference of over 35 inches (88 cm) for women and over 40 inches (102 cm) for men is associated with increased health risks. It's important to note that waist circumference should be considered alongside other health indicators, such as body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
If you have concerns about your waist circumference or other health indicators, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide individualized advice and guidance.
In your PreventScripts Kit you will find a tape measure and we want to help you use this to measure your progress in the program. Keep your tape measure handy in your bathroom in a drawer next to your PreventScripts Scale. Measure your waist monthly around the smallest point of the natural waist and record the number in your Preventscripts App. According to the World Health Organization, you should measure your waist circumference in a horizontal plane at the midpoint between the top of your hip bone and the bottom of your ribs. Go to "Settings" then tap " Waist Circumference" and enter your number.
Did you know reducing your waist by only 5cm ( 1.97 inches) is associated with reduction in chronic disease risks by 11% for men and 15% for women in a study by the American Heart Association?
Keep on tracking with PreventScripts!
To your Best Health, The PreventScripts Team