Large hips mean smartness?

So, according to a study, women with a low waist-hip ratio have better scores in conginitve tests. Not only women but also their children. The expression “low waist-hip ratio” means normal hips and a tiny waist, or a normal waist and gigorgeous hips.

Across all cultures and ethnic groups, men have always preferred women with large hips. One of the authors of the study explains that the reason for this lies in the traditional idea that large hips are a sign of high fertility. However, this study was looking for a different reason.

Apparently, the fat stored near the bum and hips is rich in LCPUFAs [long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids], specifically the DHA omega-3 [omega-3 docosahexaenoic acid]. The DHA is probably better known as an ingredient for artificial baby milks. The DHA is essential for the brain development of fetus and newborns. It is estimated that the IQ of a child increases 0.13 points for each 100mg of extra DHA daily intake during pregnancy.

That means Einstein-grade babies if you’re Alicia Keys or Beyoncé Knowles.

Coincidence or not, the humans, intellectually superior to all other animals, are the only species with a difference in the fat deposits between genders. And don’t forget that this difference only shows when women become fertile. Could this be a biological advantage for creating smarter babies?

You’re probably dying to know what is the perfect waist-hip ratio.. well.. the truth is that there isn’t one. Artists suggest some values, but these are quite flexible. In my part-time quest for translation beauty to numbers, I found one perfect value for ME. Strangely, it happens to be 1.618 – the Golden Ration – or Phi!

Here you go, three comparisons between waist and hips. The red line is the actual waist measure and the blue line is the supposed measure for a perfect ratio of 1.618. Make your own conclusions.


The study is called "Waist-hip ratio and cognitive ability: is gluteofemoral fat a privileged store of neurodevelopmental resources?” and was published in 2007 by William Lassek and Steven Gaulin.