09/20/2025
Yes! BMI is antiquated….Muscle is Medicine!
Recent studies affirm that body mass index (BMI) is the poorest predicator of health, while muscle mass is a much stronger indicator of mortality and longevity.
This is because BMI only uses height and weight, meaning it cannot distinguish between fat, muscle and bone.
Muscular people or those with a larger frame may have a high BMI but be extremely healthy due to their high muscle mass.
A “normal” BMI does not guarantee good health! Some individuals with normal BMIs can still have high blood pressure, high cholesterol and/or poor metabolic health.
Muscles are VERY important! Greater muscle mass is actually linked to a longer, healthier life and a lower risk of death.
Muscle stores glucose and heals regulate blood sugar, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Strong muscle can improve blood circulation, blood pressure, and overall heart function.
A higher muscle-to-fat ration can reduce inflammation throughout the body, lowering the risk of various diseases.
No PMID yet. See https://ufhealth.org/news/2025/uf-health-study-shows-bmis-weakness-as-a-predictor-of-future-health