Spare Tire or Junk In The Trunk: What’s Your Waist-To-Hip Risk?
When I asked a girlfriend if she thought she was more ‘pear-shaped’ or ‘apple-shaped,’ she replied, “Honey, I have some serious back and rack.” Naturally, I busted out laughing and nearly lost my morning cup of tea…but I knew what she meant. Women are more concerned with the numbers on the scale than the actual size of their waist and hips. This number is important to know because it can change your risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hormone imbalance, and even cancer.
Not familiar with the fruit comparison? An ‘apple-shaped’ person has more fat in their middle section. It’s the proverbial extra tire(s) rolled around their belly. A ‘pear-shaped’ woman has larger hips and buttocks compared to her waist. When it comes to your health, you’re better with a pear by having a smaller waist and bigger hips. Keep in mind not all women actually resemble the fruit-shape however it’s the ratio between the two that is important.
First, take a measuring tape and measure around the widest part of your hips (including your rear), then measure around your waist where it nips in the most. Then divide your waist by your hips (ie. waist in inches / hips in inches) and see if you are less than 0.8.
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