Can body weight assess health? Here's what you should know

Thanks to social media and many self-proclaimed health experts, many people attach a lot of importance to weight loss. While keeping the bodyweight under control is extremely important for a healthy life, can your health be assessed solely based on your weight? Here's what experts say. 

Bodyweight is only one of many indicators of your health. Factors such as cholesterol levels, blood sugar, blood pressure, and heart rate provide a more accurate picture. Total body weight rarely reflects fat distribution or the areas where fat is stored. In some cases, even individuals with low bodyweight may carry visceral fat around internal organs, increasing their risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers.

Conversely, some people with higher bodyweight may have their blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar well under control. Similarly, individuals with a normal weight may have poor eating habits, sedentary lifestyles and minimal physical activity. In such cases, low bodyweight alone does not protect against other health issues.

In short, those aiming for a healthy lifestyle should look beyond just controlling bodyweight. A balanced diet rich in fibre, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats is essential, along with regular physical activity. Routine health check-ups are also important to monitor blood pressure, diabetes and other key health parameters.