Like 25 per cent of the population, my body mass index (BMI) declares me “obese”. And like at least 95 per cent of the population, I roll my eyes whenever BMI is used as a health measure.
So, I was encouraged by the news this week that it’s possible to be fit but fat, with scientists finding that 27 per cent of technically obese women are “metabolically healthy”.
This means that, despite being heavy, we have no issues with cardiovascular health, blood sugar, cholesterol or the numerous other problems attributed to weight.
We do, however, have issues with being constantly judged, by other women, men, doctors, shop assistants, gym instructors and even online bots.
Over the years, thanks to some ill-advised yo-yo diets, two babies and a fair bit of Dairy Milk, my weight has fluctuated between “pretty average” and “quite hefty actually”. At my slimmest – after a bonkers diet when I literally didn’t eat real food for six months – I was a size 10 but still technically overweight and, at my heaviest, I was well into “obese” and a size 18.
Right now, aged 42, my BMI is 31 – the lower end of obese – but I eat a balanced diet and I’m the fittest I’ve ever been. And my dress size is pretty average for the UK. I’m a 12 on top and 14 on the bottom, which is probably not what people think of when they hear “obese”.
As far as my diet goes, during the week, I typically eat low sugar granola and Greek yogurt for breakfast, salmon and eggs for lunch, and dinner is usually a stir-fry or homemade curry, and I snack on fruit. On the weekends I’m a bit looser, I might have a takeaway or meal out with friends and a pain au chocolat after parkrun. I drink alcohol twice a week – it was more like six times a week in my 20s.
Last month I ran my third half marathon in two years, and, terrifyingly, I’ve just signed up for next year’s London Marathon. I run four times a week and strength-train a couple of times too. Yes, I’m that insufferable school mum head to toe in Sweaty Betty, smugly dashing from drop-off to bash out a quick 5K before work.
Dr. Debi Johnson is a medical expert and health journalist dedicated to promoting well-being. With a background in medicine, she offers evidence-based insights into health trends and wellness practices. Beyond her reporting, Dr. Debi enjoys hiking, yoga, and empowering others to lead healthier lives.
