Types of body fat

Fat is a word that tends to strike fear in most individuals especially those who yearn to have a healthy body with perfect shape. There are three basic types of body fat namely:

– Essential fat is responsible for the optimal functioning of the body.

– Subcutaneous fat, which is found under the skin, all around the body. This is the visible fat that can be seen and felt in the arms, legs, around the thighs and buttocks. The amount of subcutaneous fat in every individual depends on genetics, sedentary lifestyle, alcohol intake, diet, etc. This type of fat is harmless and protects the bones and muscles, but excess can harm the body and health.

– Visceral fat is also known as active fat due to its role in disease causation. It is located around the vital and internal organs such as the heart, lungs, liver, spleen and intestines. Excess of this increases the risk of certain diseases such as diabetes, stroke, heart diseases and certain types of cancer.

Importance of body fat

Body fat plays important roles:

  • Serves as a source of energy for the body.
  • Protection of internal organs.
  • Helps to keep the body warm.
  • Helps in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (vitamin A.D, E, K).
  • Essential in the production of body hormones e.g. estrogen, testosterone, leptin.
  • Support cell growth and functioning.

Disadvantage of body fat

Fat is very vital to the homeostasis of the body system but as the adage goes, ″too much of everything is bad‶. Despite the numerous benefits of body fat, an excess can be very detrimental to your health and affect your quality of life.

An overabundance of body fat results in obesity which increases your risk of heart diseases, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, certain cancers just to name a few.

Why the need to shed excess fat?

You look smart and feel confident as well because there is no excess weight. Losing extra subcutaneous fat makes you look slimmer but losing visceral fat improves your health and general wellbeing.

The causes of excess body fat are multifactorial: a combination of genetics, environmental factors, eating habits, sedentary lifestyle and alcohol intake. The genetic factors cannot be modified, however, the environmental factors, eating habits and lifestyle can be put in check.

Studies have shown that aerobic exercise and healthy diet are the best ways to lose fat.