For decades, Body Mass Index (BMI) has been treated as the gold standard for measuring whether someone is underweight, healthy or overweight. It is a simple calculation of weight against height, and while it provides a useful guideline, it does not always tell the full story, especially for Indian women.
The Limits of BMI
BMI does not take into account where fat is stored in the body. Many women who appear to have a healthy BMI still carry a significant amount of fat around the waist and abdomen. This type of fat often called central or visceral fat is particularly harmful as it is closely associated with insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), fertility challenges and long-term metabolic conditions.
Why Indian Women Face Higher Risks
Genetics play an important role. Indian women are more likely to accumulate abdominal fat even at relatively lower body weights compared to women from some other populations. This means that even when the BMI reading falls within the “normal” range, the actual health risks may still be high.
Waist-to-Hip Ratio and Other Indicators
A more accurate way of assessing health risks can be through the waist-to-hip ratio, which compares the circumference of the waist to that of the hips. A ratio above 0.85 in women is generally seen as a warning sign, pointing to excess abdominal fat. Other useful indicators include menstrual health, family history, lifestyle factors and overall body composition rather than focusing on a single number.
The Hidden Dangers of Central Fat
Carrying weight around the midsection is more than just a cosmetic concern. This fat is metabolically active, meaning it can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance and increase the likelihood of developing insulin resistance. Over time, this raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, irregular cycles, fertility issues and cardiovascular problems, even if body weight appears to be within a “healthy” range.
Rethinking Health Beyond the Scale
For women in India, it is important not to rely on BMI alone as a measure of wellbeing. Paying attention to symptoms such as sudden belly fat, irregular periods or signs of insulin imbalance can offer better insight into underlying health issues. Equally, making lifestyle adjustments that focus on balanced nutrition, physical activity, stress management and adequate sleep can help address the risks associated with central fat.
The Bottom Line
BMI can provide a quick estimate, but it is far from complete. For Indian women, especially, a normal BMI does not guarantee good health. Looking beyond the scale towards waist measurements, hormonal health and body composition offers a more accurate picture of overall wellbeing.