Big coats are back in - New Zealanders hate their tummies

Cinched waists might be in vogue, but they are likely to be ruled out by seven out of ten New Zealand women who admit their tummies are their most hated body part, according to the Jenny Craig Body Shape Index released today.

The study of 400 women across the country revealed females are more concerned about their waistlines than any other body part, including thighs (12%), hips and bum (5%) and arms (2%)[i].

Jenny Craig Weight Management Expert, Angela Berrill, says “their concern shouldn’t just be about looks. Carrying weight around the middle increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.

While having an ‘apple’ body shape is often determined by genetic and hormonal make-up, New Zealand women have to be aware of the risks involved of carrying too much weight around the middle,” says Berrill.

Research suggests curvier ‘hourglass’ women will live longer than apple-shaped[ii], but while an hourglass figure is deemed ‘healthier’, not all New Zealand women have been blessed with such perfect proportions.

“Understanding your body shape can make you aware of your health risks and guide you towards making vital changes to gain the ‘Skillpower’™ needed to live a long and healthy life. No matter what your body shape you must take control of your health, follow a nutritious diet, eat in moderation and exercise,” says Berrill.

What are you?

Ruler or Straight

The waist circumference is larger than the chest or hips circumferences, which are virtually the same. The body has a relatively high androgen level compared to the estrogen level, and this causes the skeleton to develop in a more masculine pattern and body fat to be distributed predominantly around the waist.

Pear or Spoon or Bell (Triangle upward)

Women with this type of body shape tend to have fat deposit first in the buttocks, hips and thighs. As body fat percentage increases, an increasing proportion of body fat is distributed around the waist and upper abdomen.

Apple (Triangle downward)

In this type of body shape fat gets accumulated in the upper part and waist area. Body fat distribution tends to begin in the arms, shoulders, chest and upper abdomen first. There is an increased risk of heart disease and metabolic disorder as abdominal fat increases risk of heart disease and can lead to insulin resistance which increases risk for metabolic disorder and diabetes.

Hourglass shape (Triangles opposing, facing in)

The waist circumference is less than that of the chest or hips circumferences, which are virtually the same. Body fat distribution tends to be around both the upper body and lower body. This body type enlarges the arms, breasts, hips and rear before other parts, including waist and upper abdomen.

Note to editors: Jenny Craig gives you Skillpower™, which equips you with the skills, strategies and knowledge to understand your body shape and change the way you think about food. www.jennycraig.co.nz