A recent study published in Nature Metabolism highlights that exercise not only aids in weight loss but also improves the quality of fat stored in the belly. According to Dr. Jeffrey Horowitz, a professor of movement studies at the University of Michigan School of Kinesiology, consistent physical activity transforms fat tissue into a more efficient energy storage system.
In the study, researchers analyzed two groups of 16 obese individuals: one group engaged in regular exercise, totaling at least four hours a week over two years, while the other group remained inactive. Samples of subcutaneous fat—considered the healthier fat storage area compared to visceral fat surrounding internal organs—were collected for comparison.
The results revealed that the exercising group exhibited healthier fat tissue with increased blood vessel density, higher levels of mitochondria and beneficial proteins, reduced collagen that hinders metabolism, and fewer inflammatory cells. These factors contribute to a greater fat storage capacity in the belly, potentially leading to a more favorable fat distribution.
Dr. Horowitz noted, “This means that when individuals gain weight, the excess fat is more likely to be stored in a healthier manner under the skin, rather than accumulating around vital organs like the liver or heart.” He also emphasized that regular exercise enhances blood vessel oxygenation and nutrient delivery in fat tissue, further supporting this positive transformation.
