New research shows those with an apple shaped body are not at a higher risk for heart attack and stroke, as previously reported.
For years, we've been told that obese people with fat around their waists have a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes than the bottom-heavy pear shape. Now, however, a huge international study of 220,000 people has found that the greater risk is just a myth. The research, reported in The Lancet, monitored the participants for nearly 10 years. Over 14,000 people had a heart attack or stroke but it was found that although obesity is a huge risk factor, the hip/waist ratio and waist measurements were no more accurate predictors for cardiovascular disease than BMI. It also found that measures, such as blood cholesterol and blood pressure levels, were good predictors of cardiovascular disease.
ZEST says: If you're an apple shape but not overweight, this is welcome news, but doesn't mean you can buy yourself a box of chocolates to celebrate. This study still supports the fact that being overweight, having high blood pressure and high cholesterol all increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.
