Killer Fat

[Sheryl]

That is the title of an article in my most recent Discover magazine. Everyone knows that "apple" shaped body types are at much higher risk of diabetes, heart disease etc. but this article really explains more of the science behind it and proposes that in the future we will think of unhealthy overweight in a very different way.... people with normal BMIs can still have "dangerous fat" and the tendency for that is genetic. Conversely, fat bottom girls and thunder thighs can have extra weight without the increased health risks.

One of the most fascinating paragraphs was about a "blind" study where scientists look at dna markers for 9 people. They predicted accurately, which of these people were overweight, normal weight and which had the "killer fat". So while it is definately a lifestyle issue, it is also very much genetic.

Here is some of what you can do to minimize your risk:
-reduce overall weight, even a small change can greatly reduce health risks
-reduce consumption of trans fat, which increases bad fat
-exercise, which can help change body composition
can't remember the rest...

I don't think this is posted online yet, but it is worth looking for once it is.

signed, Sheryl, an apple

[MJ]

I want to see that article when it comes out. I am definitely an apple also and need all the help I can get. The doctor checked me for diabetes last week, and yesterday told me I was in the clear so that's a good thing.

MJ

[Mary Ann]

It's because apples have larger omentums. That's the glob of fat that clings to the organs like the heart and stomach. Pears have smaller ones, and just have big butts or thighs.

In the book YOU: On a Diet, they talk a lot about the health risks, and how just losing a few inches off your waist can dramatically alter your prognosis.

[Newfygirl]

I'm a pear. ...I'd like to be a banana.

[DorothyB]

Banana is good except for the osteoporsis (sp?) as evidenced by the bent back. Maybe I will be a zuchini squash?