According to the latest studies, you can’t be fit and fat. Until recently, being metabolically healthy but obese was an excuse to overeat. Millions of people were saying that their weight doesn’t affect their health or quality of life. Now it’s finally time to dispel the concept of metabolically healthy obesity.
There Is No Such Thing as Fat but Fit
Researchers claim that the idea of fit but fat is just a myth. To enjoy optimal health, you need to be both fit and have a normal weight. According to scientists, the benefits of regular exercise are drastically reduced for obese people. These recent findings came as a response to a 2012 study saying that the risk of dying from cancer or heart disease is no higher for obese and overweight individuals than for those with a normal body mass index.
Other studies indicate that where the fat is located in your body is more important than your actual weight. People with visceral fat have the highest risk of cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, obesity, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Research also shows that the benefits of exercise are very low for obese patients, whereas for those morbidly obese, there are no benefits at all.
What about Metabolically Healthy Obese People?
The dangerous myth of metabolically healthy obesity won’t die too soon. However, more and more studies are showing the side effects of obesity on mental and physical health. Obese people who work out regularly are far more likely to die at a young age compared to slim people who don’t exercise at all. A low body mass index is more important than physical fitness.
Contrary to popular belief, obese and overweight people can not compensate for their mortality risk by working out more. If you carry extra pounds, losing weight is the best thing you can do. Diet and exercise are equally important, so you have to change your eating habits to shed fat. Set realistic goals and put your health first. Food is not the answer to your problems!
