Although having a generous buttocks is a considerable asset for the majority of women, it can be the source of complexes for some. Science could change their minds, however, since a study claims that people who store more fat in the hips and thighs are less likely to be affected by a heart attack, a stroke or even diabetes.
Published in the journal Cell Metabolism , research by scientists at the University of Tübingen, Germany, shows that excess fat in the lower part of the body acts like a "sponge" and prevents fat from reaching internal organs such as the heart and lungs. These findings hold true for both women and men, but the researchers point out, however, that the protective properties of fat are more present in pre-menopausal women, who tend to accumulate fat more easily than men.
To reach these conclusions, the team used MRI scans and regular health check-ups during which body fat distribution was monitored. Diabetes expert doctor and author of the study Norbert Stefan adds that the natural "shield" in question is less effective in women who are overweight, because the levels of fat in the heart and lungs are already too high.
The fat contained in the thighs and hips is known as subcutaneous fat; it differs from visceral fat which stores in the abdomen and is responsible for releasing harmful chemicals that can damage cardiovascular health; Visceral fat releases fatty acids into the bloodstream that can cause cholesterol and diabetes, among other things. Another interesting fact:a study published in the journal Menopause suggests that black women have 20% less subcutaneous fat than white women, but the latter are more prone to developing visceral fat. So much for the "fat point" of the day. 😉
