People with a slim physique are often thought to have low body fat and be healthier. However, those with a slim build can sometimes have high levels of fat, a condition known as "skinny fat." What is skinny fat, and is this condition actually healthier? Check out the review in the following article. 

What is skinny fat

Traditionally, people often use categories like overweight and underweight as indicators of health. However, experts suggest that weight alone isn't a reliable measure of health.

An individual's nutritional status is better assessed using the Body Mass Index (BMI), which compares weight to height, or by measuring body composition, which looks at the percentage of body components such as fat, muscle, bone, and water.

Despite having a normal BMI, someone can still be at risk of health issues if they have high body fat. This condition is referred to as skinny fat. Skinny fat is not a formal medical term, so it is used in various ways.

Is skinny fat dangerous?

Since skinny fat is not a medical term, there are no precise criteria for diagnosing it or assessing associated risks. However, having excess fat, whether visceral (around the abdomen) or subcutaneous (under the skin), can increase the risk of:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• High cholesterol
• Hypertension

Causes of skinny fat

Everyone's body is different, and some people are genetically predisposed to higher body fat and lower muscle mass. This condition is influenced by several factors, including age, sex, and lifestyle factors such as:

Exercise habits

Lack of exercise or an inactive lifestyle increases the risk of fat accumulation and obesity. Conversely, regular exercise enhances insulin sensitivity and lowers the risk of diabetes. Consistent exercise can help prevent hormonal changes that negatively impact body composition and make you more prone to storing fat.

Diet patterns

An unhealthy diet, such as consuming processed foods, high-sugar foods, and high-fat foods, can increase the risk of fat accumulation. Frequently, eating foods low in protein can also lead to nutritional deficiencies that hinder muscle development.

Hormone levels

Hormonal imbalances can lead to increased body fat and changes in fat storage. In women, decreased estrogen levels after menopause can lead to increased fat mass and greater storage of visceral fat in the abdominal cavity.

How to address skinny fat

Though not a medical term, addressing skinny fat is important because excess fat can cause health problems such as obesity, high cholesterol, and liver and organ dysfunction.

Here are some approaches to managing skinny fat:

• Regular exercise: Combine cardiovascular and strength-training exercises
• Increase physical activity: Stay active throughout the day
• Eat more protein: Helps in muscle building
• Reduce the intake of foods high in fat and sugar: Consider for a more balanced diet
• Get seven hours of sleep: Adequate rest is essential
• Manage stress effectively: Stress can affect body composition

Although skinny fat is not a medical term, it’s important to monitor your body's composition. Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce excess fat and increase muscle mass.

If you have questions about nutrition, consult with a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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