How to Use Waist-Hip Ratio to Detect Overeating

The waist-hip ratio is just one way to tell if someone is overweight and possibly overeating. It is measured by dividing the circumference of the waist to the circumference of the hip. For women, the right waist-hip ratio is often considered a benchmark of attractiveness.

Things You'll Need

• Calculator
• Measuring tape

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Instructions

• 1

  Purchase a measuring tape that doesn't have any stretch in it. A tailor's tape works best, but in a pinch, you can use a small metal measuring tape.

• 2

  Measure the circumference of your waist. Wrap the measuring tape around the smallest circumference of your waist, keeping the tape all at one level. The smallest circumference usually is a spot just above your belly button.

• 3

  Measure the circumference of your hips. Keeping your measuring tape level, wrap it around your hips at the widest part of your buttocks.

• 4

  Divide your waist size by your hip size. If you do not have a calculator handy, visit the BMI Calculator (see Resources below).

• 5

  Assess your results. A healthy waist-hip ratio for men is 0.95 or less, while a healthy waist-hip for women is 0.80 or less. A higher ratio can indicate the person is overweight and therefore overeating.

• 6

  Visit a doctor if your waist-hip ratio is above the recommended standards and if you feel you are eating too much. A high waist-hip ratio may mean you are at a higher risk for diabetes, so your doctor should recommend a diet and exercise plan to reduce your risk.