A recent study suggests that regular physical activity might positively influence how the body stores fat, potentially making belly fat “healthier.” According to research published on September 10 in Nature Metabolism, consistent exercise can shift fat storage patterns in individuals with overweight and obesity, potentially reducing the accumulation of harmful visceral fat.
Exercise and Fat Storage: Key Findings
Researchers from the University of Michigan conducted a study examining individuals with overweight and obesity who engaged in regular exercise over a period of at least two years. The study found that these individuals had a greater capacity to store fat subcutaneously, beneath the skin, compared to those who did not exercise. This shift in fat storage could be beneficial as subcutaneous fat is generally considered less harmful than visceral fat, which accumulates around internal organs and is linked to increased risks of insulin resistance and diabetes.
Dr. Jagdish Khubchandani, a professor of public health at New Mexico State University, explained that while both abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (aSAT) and visceral fat contribute to metabolic functions, visceral fat poses greater health risks due to its hormonal activity and potential to cause dyslipidemia and clot formation. Khubchandani was not involved in the study but provided insight into the implications of fat distribution.
The Need for Further Research
The study, which included a small sample size of 16 exercisers compared to 16 non-exercisers, suggests that regular exercise might improve fat storage patterns. However, the findings are preliminary and further research is necessary to fully understand the implications.
Dr. Mir Ali, a board-certified bariatric surgeon and medical director at MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center, noted that while the study design was sound, the small number of participants limits the generalizability of the results. He emphasized that the significance of the observed changes and their impact on cardiometabolic health remains unclear.
Dr. Jeffrey Horowitz, the lead author of the study, acknowledged that while the research does not provide direct evidence supporting the notion of preserved cardiometabolic health, the hypothesis is that improved subcutaneous fat storage could reduce the risk of fat accumulation in critical organs such as the liver and heart. Horowitz observed that participants in the exercise group also exhibited greater insulin sensitivity and other favorable health outcomes, which indirectly supports this hypothesis, although it is not definitive.
Exercise vs. Weight Loss: A Complex Relationship
The study adds to the growing body of evidence highlighting the benefits of regular exercise beyond weight management. However, some experts argue that the primary goal should be reducing overall body fat rather than improving fat storage patterns.
Dr. Ali pointed out that the focus should be on reducing both visceral and overall fat to lower the risk of health conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension. He recommends a combination of exercise, a diet rich in protein and non-starchy vegetables, and low in carbohydrates for optimal fat reduction.
Dr. Horowitz concurred but noted that significant fat loss often yields more pronounced health improvements than exercise alone. Despite this, sustained weight loss can be challenging, and the study suggests that maintaining an active lifestyle may offer a “healthier” way to manage existing body fat, contributing to overall health benefits.
Practical Recommendations
Incorporating regular exercise into daily life, even if just a few days a week, can be beneficial. Simple actions such as managing stress, getting adequate sleep, reducing technology use, walking regularly, and staying socially connected can contribute to better health.
Dr. Khubchandani emphasized that making small, manageable lifestyle changes can have significant positive effects. The study highlights that while more research is needed to fully understand the cardiometabolic effects of exercise-induced changes in fat storage, regular physical activity remains a valuable component of a healthy lifestyle.
Conclusion
The latest research underscores the potential for regular exercise to positively influence how the body stores fat, leading to healthier subcutaneous fat and reduced risk of visceral fat accumulation. While further studies are needed to confirm the full range of health benefits, the findings contribute to the growing evidence supporting the overall advantages of physical activity for individuals with overweight and obesity.
