Obesity is a huge epidemic in the United States – one with deadly consequences. Heart disease, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome are just a few of the issues that often go hand-in-hand with obesity.
Interestingly, these conditions are related not only to the fact that excess fat is being stored in your body, but also to the location of that fat. Understanding how your body shape eludes to conditions for which you’re at risk is the first step toward getting healthy.
Are you pear-shaped or apple-shaped, and what are the implications for each?
Android Obesity
When you fall under the android category of obesity, fat is stored in your abdominal area. This is what’s considered apple-shaped. Unfortunately, android is the worst kind of obesity for your health.
According to a study done by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute, people who store fat in their abdomen regions are more prone to weight-related illnesses than those who store fat in other places on their bodies. Some examples of conditions for which you’re at risk with android obesity are:
-
Diabetes
-
Heart disease
-
Gout
-
High blood pressure
-
Certain cancers
In addition to the abdomen, android obesity can sometimes be seen in the upper chest, nape of the neck, and the shoulders. Unfortunately for women, those who experience android obesity may also develop masculine features, such as excess hair growth throughout the body.
Gynoid Obesity
Gynoid obesity – the pear-shaped body – manifests itself in a different way than does the android type, with excess fat being stored in the hip and thigh areas. Rounded hips and a larger than average buttocks can signify gynoid obesity.
The good news for those who have this body shape, though, is that you’re at a lower risk for developing obesity-related conditions than those who are apple-shaped. While both types of obesity are dangerous to your health, android obesity is significantly more dangerous and requires immediate attention.
Whether android or gynoid, obesity is bad for your health. Unfortunately, weight gain often comes with age. Maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle is the best way to slow down weight gain and feel younger longer.
At Matrix Age Management, we specialize in proactive, preventative programs that help you fight the effects of aging. Through exercise programs, prescription-grade supplements, hormone therapy, stress management, and sleep support, we help clients feel great and live their best lives. To learn more about managing the symptoms of aging, reach out to us today.
