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ZOE Science & Nutrition

How body fat impacts health and aging

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.
58:02

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Women naturally carry more body fat in the hips and thighs, which can be protective against disease.
  • During menopause, fat distribution shifts to the abdomen, increasing the risk of diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular issues.

Deep dives

The Influence of Body Fat on Health

Body fat plays a crucial role in our health, with different fat distributions having varying impacts. Women naturally carry more body fat than men, but this is not necessarily unhealthy. Body fat stored in the hips and thighs can actually be protective against disease. However, during menopause, fat distribution shifts to the belly area, increasing the risk of diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular issues. It's important to understand and embrace these natural changes, and maintain a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise and a balanced diet.

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