High BMI – why does it matter?
A BMI value that corresponds to overweight does not necessarily imply health risks on its own. If you are well trained and have a higher amount of muscle mass, this provides many health benefits even if you weigh more than what is considered normal weight. However, a high proportion of body fat, especially when located around the internal organs in the abdomen (abdominal fat), increases the risk of health problems and certain diseases.
Abdominal fat is associated with a number of health risks, while fat located on the hips and thighs usually has less impact on health. Diseases and conditions related to metabolism are most affected by body weight and waist circumference. This includes conditions such as cardiovascular disease like high blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol and other blood lipid disorders, insulin resistance and elevated blood sugar, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, as well as pain in the back, knees, and other joints.
These symptoms are collectively referred to as metabolic syndrome because they are related to metabolism. Overweight and obesity also increase the risk of certain types of cancer.
