According to pafikutaikab.org For decades, excess weight has been closely associated with health risks such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. However, new research suggests that being overweight does not always mean being unhealthy, challenging long-standing assumptions about body size and well-being.
Weight vs Health: Not Always the Same
Recent studies highlight that some individuals with higher body mass index (BMI) still show normal blood pressure, healthy cholesterol levels, and stable blood sugar. This indicates that weight alone may not be the most reliable measure of overall health.
“Health is more complex than numbers on a scale,” said a nutritionist in Jakarta. “Lifestyle factors such as diet quality, physical activity, sleep, and stress management play a bigger role.”
The Role of Lifestyle
Doctors emphasize that people categorized as overweight can still maintain good health if they:
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
- Exercise regularly, at least 150 minutes per week
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Get adequate rest and manage stress effectively
These factors often matter more than weight alone when predicting long-term health outcomes.
Rethinking BMI
The Body Mass Index (BMI) has been widely used as a standard to classify weight categories. However, experts now argue that BMI does not account for muscle mass, fat distribution, or individual metabolic differences.
A study published in 2025 found that nearly 30 percent of people classified as overweight by BMI had no metabolic health issues, while some with “normal” BMI showed early signs of cardiovascular problems.
Psychological Impact
Beyond physical health, researchers warn that equating weight with health can harm mental well-being. Weight stigma often leads to low self-esteem, anxiety, or unhealthy dieting behaviors.
“Promoting health without shame is crucial,” the nutritionist added. “Encouraging people to adopt healthy habits is more effective than focusing only on body size.”
