A recent Taiwanese medical research has shown that people who have a Body Mass Index between 24 and 25.9 have the lowest risk of death. However, the finding actually contradicts to the recommended number by the CDC in the U.S., which considers individuals of being overweight after surpassing the BMI of 25. So which standard should we follow?

While most people worry the health risks from weight problems, a local research shows that people with a BMI value between 24 and 25.9 have the lowest risk of death.

But the value actually falls in the overweight category in the weight standard suggested by Department of Health.

Doctors say the current definitions of overweight and obesity were written back in 2002 and are inconsistent with the pattern found now as the society and dietary habits change.

Some doctors believe that Chinese population with the BMI value of 24 to 25.9 may have more subcutaneous fat, which could provide more protection to human body, and thus resulting in a lower risk of death.

But more researches are needed to confirm the finding.

Although the new finding has created a lot of buzz, the Bureau of Health Promotion reminds the public to have a low-grease, low-salt, low-sugar and high-fiber diet, along with regular exercise regimen in order to raise one's immunity level.