Orlando, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — Research shows more than a third of young women and a quarter of young men weigh themselves at least once a week. But when it comes to your health, it’s not just about the numbers on the scale. Where you carry weight, not just how much can affect your risk for heart disease, diabetes, even cancer.
Bodies come in all shapes and sizes. But research shows fat distribution, where weight is stored, can be linked to different health risks. It’s not about appearance, it’s about what’s happening inside the body.
People with an apple-shaped body carry more weight around the middle and are more likely to store visceral fat, deep belly fat that surrounds vital organs. They have a higher risk of cancer, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Studies show this is the most dangerous type.
A pear-shaped body carries more weight in the hips and legs. Some studies show this may lower heart disease risk. But that extra weight in the lower body can raise the risk for joint problems and vein disease.
An inverted-triangle body type means a person is wide in their shoulders and chest with a narrow waist and bottom. Because they carry more weight up top, they may be prone to back, shoulder, or neck pain.
An hourglass-figure means a person’s upper and lower body are in proportion to each other. Some studies have suggested women with this type of body are less likely to be depressed and are more fertile.
Experts stress no body shape is “good” or “bad.” Any shape can be healthy. What matters most: regular movement, balanced nutrition, and managing excess weight no matter where it shows up.
New research adds another layer to the conversation. A study involving researchers from six countries found taller adults with a “beer belly” body shape were 12 percent more likely to develop colorectal cancer. Those with more evenly distributed weight, or shorter, stockier builds had the lowest risk.
Contributors to this news report include: Julie Marks, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor.
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Sources:
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-body-shape-means-for-your-health
https://nypost.com/2022/04/26/how-to-classify-your-body-shape-and-assess-its-health-risks/
