15 Jan Body Fat Basics from Florida Weight Loss Doctor
Beware of oversimplifying ideas.
As the New Year passes, resolutions pile up. And most people have declared war on the contents of their panties and, unfortunately, their bodies. We want people to make healthier food and lifestyle choices, but we do not agree with the language and messaging of a billion-dollar diet industry that perpetuates the message that we are too “something” (usually fat) and absolutely not enough.
The idea that we have to get rid of all-things fat takes a very complex idea and reduces it to something as simple as “this is bad.” This is problematic. As Andrew Schaeffer states In Defense of Body Fat, “There is of course still such a thing as having too much body fat. However, all too often losing body fat is viewed as always positive. This is an oversimplification. Body fat is not, contrary to popular opinion, bad by default.”
Today, we’re going to discuss some body fat basics with you: why we have body fat; why it’s important to have body fat; and how much body fat we should have (which is the million-dollar question).
Not all fats are the same.
Our bodies need fats, and fats are found everywhere in our bodies. The fats in our bodies have very different functions. Some fats are essential for storing energy for later use, Othere are essential for hormone function (estrogen, leptin, insulin, cortisol, and growth hormone), reproductive health, temperature regulation, vitamin absorption, and more.
Essential fats are found in the brain, bone marrow, around organs (to protect them), and nerves. Subcutaneous fat is stored under our skin (just as its name implies.) Pinch your side or under your arm. That’s subcutaneous fat. Visceral fat is our belly fat. It’s pretty important, as it is the white fat that surrounds all major organs.
Basically, our bodies need fat.
How much fat should you have?
Not everything comes down to a simple number or percentage. Not all bodies are the same. What your body needs depends on your age, gender, and physical/athletic needs. In our drive for a no-fat body, we’re completely dismissing the importance of fats and how they play a critical part in the bigger picture. Our bodies are machines that need a balance of everything, including fats. But let’s not get carried away. It’s not about eating a dozen donuts and hailing praise to fats!
So, what should we take from this information?
- Everybody, regardless of size or shape, will be healthier by making good nutrition choices and exercising.
- Excess fat can be harmful. Just as too little fat can be harmful.
- Assessing how your weight impacts your health should be a discussion between you and your personal healthcare provider. Every person’s needs are different.
- Change the way you talk about weight. Shift the conversation from weight and “fat” to health.
- Develop a positive relationship with food and exercise.
Stay informed. Don’t get sucked into the fads and memes. And, always, be healthy.