Real-World Solutions

Improving How We Measure Health

Traditionally, health was measured using BMI, though it provides a very restricted view since it does not account for body composition. Instead, other methods should be utilized and combined with the usage of BMI, such as using waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio, and skinfold assessments. 

Better Measurement
  • Waist-to-height ratio:
    • Similar to BMI & waist circumference in children to estimate cardiometabolic risk (CMR)
    • Better predictor in adults for CMR
  • Skinfold test:
    • Estimates the amount of subcutaneous fat, giving an estimate of the overall fat as a percentage
  • Waist circumference:
    • Estimates the abdominal fat, mainly the visceral fat, which is the most unhealthy form of fat. 
    • Assessing visceral fat is a great indicator of health risks due to its association with numerous illnesses previously mentioned 

Promoting Healthier Outcomes

Prevention Strategies- Focus on What Matters

✔ Fat distribution
 ✔ Lifestyle habits
 ✔ Physical activity
 ✔ Nutrition

🏫 Schools
  • Teach:
    • Nutrition
      • provides knowledge and understanding of why they should pick certain food options and not just be told to do so
    • Exercise
      • Strength training- builds muscle and bone
      • Physical activity reduces the accumulation of fat mass compared to being sedentary 
    • Mental health
      • Stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression are associated with poor habits such as improper eating (overeating or undereating).
        • Mental health education is important to prevent individuals from using food as a coping mechanism 

🏙 Communities
  • Improve access to:
    • Healthy food
      • Nutritious food is available rather than highly processed, high-calorie food
    • Safe activity spaces
      • Safe areas to engage in activities being available produce greater opportunities for physical activity

👤 Individuals
  • Reduce long sedentary periods
    • Less screen time, less bed rotting, etc.
  • Stay active
  • Focus on body composition, not weight
    • Do not just look at the number on the scale. Building muscle and bone and reducing fat mass is more important than how much one weighs

🔑 FINAL TAKEAWAYS

  • All fat is not equal

  • Location, size, and function of fat matter (from notes)

  • Visceral fat = highest risk

  • BMI and weight are limited tools

  • Youth is a critical window for long-term health

  • Modern lifestyle trends are increasing hidden health risks