In today’s health-conscious world, prioritising a healthy lifestyle is paramount. While many of us strive to achieve weight loss and fitness goals, it is crucial to recognise that not all fats are detrimental to our health. In fact, some fats can be beneficial and contribute to our overall well-being. Before embarking on any fitness regimen or dietary plan, it’s essential to differentiate between harmful and beneficial fats and comprehend how the latter can positively impact our health objectives. By discerning the distinctions between harmful and beneficial fats, we empower ourselves to make informed decisions that align with our health and fitness aspirations.
WHAT ARE FATS?
Fats, also referred to as lipids, are integral components of the human body, serving a multitude of crucial functions. They play a pivotal role in energy storage, providing insulation, safeguarding organs and facilitating the transportation of fat-soluble vitamins.
WHAT ARE DIFFERENT TYPES OF FATS?
White Fat
It is the most common type of fat, storing excess energy to use later. It’s found under the skin and around organs. Its primary function is to store energy for future use, provide insulation, and cushion organs against physical shock.
Brown Fat
This type of fat isn’t as common as white fat, but it’s crucial for keeping us warm because its cells are packed with mitochondria, which produce heat. Unlike white fat, which stores energy, brown fat helps regulate body temperature and can even burn calories to keep us healthy.
Beige Fat
Beige fat combines features of both white and brown fat. While located within white fat deposits, beige fat cells can transform into a brown fat-like state when triggered such as by cold or specific hormones.
Essential Fat
Essential fat is the minimum amount of fat required for basic bodily functions like hormone production, organ protection, and insulation. It’s stored in bone marrow, organs and the central nervous system. Falling below an optimal level of this fat can disrupt hormone balance and affect bodily functions.
Subcutaneous Fat
This fat is stored directly beneath the skin. It serves as a source of energy and provides insulation to maintain body temperature. While excess subcutaneous fat can contribute to obesity, a healthy amount is essential for cushioning and protecting tissues.
Visceral Fat
This fat is stored deep within the abdominal cavity, surrounding vital organs such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines. Unlike subcutaneous fat, visceral fat is metabolically active and has been linked to various health risks, including insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome. Managing visceral fat through lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise is crucial for overall health and reducing the risk of associated complications.
WHY BROWN FAT HELPS YOUR BODY?
- Brown fat plays a critical role in thermo regulation, especially in newborns and small mammals.
- By generating heat through thermogenesis, brown fat helps maintain body temperature in cold environments or during exposure to cold stress.
- Activating brown fat can increase energy expenditure, aiding in weight management and potentially mitigating obesity. Studies have suggested that individuals with higher levels of active brown fat tend to have lower body mass index (BMI) and better metabolic health.
- Brown fat activity has been associated with improved glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity.
