Ask the experts: Waist circumference

Why is waist circumference so important?

"I have read a lot recently about waist circumference and the dangers of having fat around the stomach area. Can you tell me why it’s dangerous, and what the recommended waist measurement/s should be?

Name not supplied

Kristen MacKenzie, health and nutrition consultant at Millennium Institute of Sport and Health, comments:

"Waist circumference measures ‘central adiposity’, ie the amount of fat a person has in their stomach area (the ‘beer belly’). This is a particularly useful measurement as it is very simple and quick to take by a trained professional.

Measurements above the upper limits (see below) are considered to be ‘at risk’ for conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes."

Upper limits

• NZ European, Pacific Island and Maori men - 102cm
• NZ European, Pacific Island and Maori women - 88cm
• Asian and Indian men - 90cm
• Asian and Indian women - 80cm