Its been said again and again that if our bodies are apple-shaped, with more fat around our waists, our chance of developing heart problems increases. Well, now a new study suggests its just not true. The recently released research shows that no matter where we carry our excess fat, were putting our heart health at risk.
"This study shows that belly fat is the same as other fat" when analyzing heart disease risks, said the studys lead researcher, Dr. Emanuele Di Angelantonio, of Cambridge University in England.
Heres how the study worked: The researchers at Cambridge analyzed health data compiled in 58 previous studies including 221,934 people who were monitored for 10 or more years. By the end of those studies, 14,297 participants had a heart attack or stroke. Based on the research gathered, the experts concluded that whether a person apple or pear- shaped, or all around overweight, made no difference in the risk or occurrence of heart disease.
Scientists admit there still might be some increased health disadvantage to an apple-shaped body. Studies have indicated that belly fat is more strongly associated with metabolic problems, such as insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes, than fat in other parts of the body.
Ultimately, whats the lesson to be learned? Fat is fat. If youre overweight, your health is at risk.
Robin Westen is ThirdAges medical reporter. Check for her daily updates. She is the author of Relationship Repair (Sterling).
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