Extra weight or being skinny? Surprising Danish study suggests what is more dangerous

The study results suggest that people with a BMI under 18.5 were nearly three times more likely to die than those with a BMI around 24 (Images: Canva)

Are you among those who glorify thinness? Well, it’s not always healthy to be thin, says science, finally. A major study out of Denmark has challenged one of the biggest health myths that thin equals healthy.

It turns out that being too slim — even within what we call a normal weight — could be more dangerous to your health than carrying a bit of extra weight. A recent research, presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) in Vienna, is urging both doctors and the public to rethink what it actually means to be healthy in terms of body weight.

Researchers studied health data from over 85,000 Danes (mostly women, with a median age of 66), analysing their BMI — a measure of weight to height — alongside mortality rates. Over five years, 7,555 participants died. Surprisingly, people classed as underweight (BMI under 18.5) were 2.73 times more likely to die than those at the top of the “normal” BMI range (22.5 to <25). Even those with BMIs between 18.5 and <22.5 — still considered “healthy” — had significantly higher mortality risks.

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Those in the overweight category (BMI 25 to <30), and even those with mild obesity (BMI up to 35), did not show higher death rates than the healthy reference group. This flies in the face of public messaging that any weight above normal is automatically bad news.

According to Dr Sigrid Bjerge Gribsholt, the lead researcher, both underweight and obesity are global health concerns — but the focus may have been too narrow. "It was once thought the BMI linked to the lowest mortality was between 20 and 25. That range may be shifting upwards," she explained.

One reason, behind the surprising result, could be reverse causation – people with serious health conditions might lose weight, making it look like being thin is risky, when it’s the illness behind the weight loss that’s really to blame. Still, the data shows a strong trend that challenges mainstream thinking.

Also read | How obesity can lead to another chronic diseases

5 surprising truths the study uncovered

1. Being underweight is riskier than being overweight: People with a BMI under 18.5 were nearly three times more likely to die than those with a BMI around 24.

2. Healthy BMI might not be that healthy: Even those with BMIs from 18.5 to 22.5—often seen as ideal—showed increased mortality.

3. Slightly overweight is no big deal: Those with a BMI between 25 and 30 had no increased risk of death compared to the so-called healthy group.

4. Not all fat is equal: It’s about where fat sits. Visceral fat (around the organs) is dangerous. Fat on hips or thighs? Less so.

5. Fat but fit might be real: Some with obesity still showed no higher mortality—likely due to better metabolic health, not just weight alone.

Beyond BMI

BMI has long been a go-to health indicator, but this research suggests it may be far too blunt. Professor Jens Meldgaard Bruun says, “The treatment of obesity should be personalised.” It's not just the number on the scale—it’s your health, fat distribution, and underlying conditions that truly matter.

FAQs on Health Risks of Obesity:

1. What are the main health risks associated with obesity?

Obesity increases the risk of various conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain cancers.

2. Can being slightly overweight be healthier than being underweight?

Yes, recent studies suggest that being slightly overweight may pose fewer health risks than being underweight.

3. How does fat distribution affect health risks?

Fat around the organs (visceral fat) is more dangerous than fat on hips or thighs. Visceral fat is associated with higher health risks.

4. Is BMI a reliable indicator of health?

BMI is a common measure but may be too simplistic. It’s important to consider overall health, fat distribution, and underlying conditions.

5. Can someone with obesity be healthy?

Yes, some individuals with obesity may have better metabolic health and not show higher mortality rates, suggesting that fitness and overall health are crucial.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.