What is the ideal waist to hip ratio closer to 1.00 indicative of?

A waist-to-hip ratio approaching 1.00 is indicative of increased risk of central adiposity and related health issues. This measurement assesses the distribution of body fat, specifically around the abdomen compared to the hips. A ratio near 1.00 suggests that the waist circumference is nearly equal to the hip circumference, which is often associated with an accumulation of visceral fat—the type of fat that surrounds internal organs and is linked to a higher risk of metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease, and other health problems.

In contrast, a lower waist-to-hip ratio generally signifies a healthier fat distribution, often characterized by more subcutaneous fat, which is less harmful than visceral fat. Understanding this metric helps health professionals gauge an individual's potential risk for obesity-related diseases and implement appropriate weight management strategies.