ZOE Science & Nutrition How body fat impacts health and aging
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Nov 30, 2023 In this insightful discussion, Prof. Deborah Clegg, Vice President for Research at Texas Tech University, sheds light on the complexities of body fat as we age, especially around menopause. She challenges the negative perception of fat and explains its vital roles in hormonal balance and health. The conversation explores gender differences in fat distribution, the health risks of abdominal fat, and the impact of estrogen on weight changes. Listeners gain valuable knowledge about mindful eating and the importance of including women in health research.
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Body Fat's Importance
- Body fat stores excess calories and releases hormones vital for health.
- Insufficient body fat is as detrimental as excessive fat, especially for women's reproductive health.
Healthy vs. Unhealthy Fat
- Healthy fat cells (like spandex) expand to store calories, while unhealthy ones (like wool) cannot.
- Estrogen promotes healthy fat cell development, influencing fat distribution.
Fat Distribution in Men vs. Women
- Women store fat in hips and thighs for breastfeeding, while men store it in the belly for quick energy access.
- This distribution difference reflects evolutionary adaptations for different roles.