(ARA) – All fat is not equal. Scientists now see the excess fat around one’s waist as a more dangerous health threat than fat stored in other parts of the body.

This abdominal fat can lead to an increased risk for health problems such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. “Historically fat was seen as a storage depot for excess energy, but research now demonstrates that fat tissue actually acts as an endocrine organ with the ability to secrete hormones and other inflammatory chemicals that can effect the kidneys, liver, heart and blood vessels,” says Dr. Judith Radin, an obesity research veteran and American College of Veterinary Pathologist (ACVP) member.

“The close proximity of abdominal fat stores to vital organs may be why this tissue is more dangerous than fat found in other areas of the body.” Radin’s research examines obesity’s effects on heart function and blood pressure and her studies show that hormones released by fat tissue can sometimes lead to health problems.

For example, blood vessel and the kidney function can change because of these hormones, thereby increasing blood pressure. But it’s not just what’s on the inside that counts -- looking externally at people’s waist-to-hip ratios may be an indicator of their heart disease risk, according to a Tuft’s University study. This ratio is calculated by dividing the waist measurement by that of the hip. Men, who generally tend to carry their fat stores primarily in their midsection, are more likely to suffer heart disease if their waist-to-hip ratio is at or above .9. A woman’s healthy waist-to-hip ratio is .85 or below.

Despite the unhealthy consequences of being obese, there’s no reason to give up hope. “It’s important to remember that the effects of obesity are reversible. Relatively good scientific evidence shows that problems related to this condition can go away or become much less severe when people lose weight,” says Sharkey. As scientists learn more about how obesity leads to negative health effects, they also become better equipped to find therapies to treat and prevent these problems. Courtesy of ARAcontent.

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How to Improve Your Health: Small Changes Get Big Results (ARA) – Health experts say that making small changes to your lifestyle is the most effective way to achieve long-term good health.

Here are some ideas on how to help improve your health with small changes that will have an impact:

* Take a few 10-minute breaks throughout the day. If possible, take a short walk outside or to the other side of your office building. It will clear your head and help to improve your metabolism, get the blood flowing and rejuvenate you during the workday.

* Stay hydrated. Today, people of all ages are looking for hydration options to support their active lifestyles, but they’re not willing to sacrifice taste or incur added calories. Make your water multitask for you by choosing a water beverage that hydrates while also providing essential nutrients.

* Cut restaurant meals in half. The portion size at restaurants has increased during the last decade and eating out can be a big factor in weight gain. Split your entrée with your dining partner or divide your serving in half and take it home for lunch the next day.

* Eat foods that are colorful. Healthy foods are usually those that have vibrant colors such as red and yellow peppers, blueberries, cantaloupe or spinach. By incorporating a variety of colors into your diet at home and while eating out, you are more likely to get your recommended daily nutrients.

* Incorporate moderate exercise into your routine. Studies have shown that moderate exercise such as walking for 30 minutes a day, five or more days a week, can improve your cardiovascular fitness. You will see even greater benefits if you increase the mileage, walk up an incline, or jog. “Just remember to keep your goals realistic at the beginning. Once you start feeling the benefits, you’ll want to incorporate even more healthy habits,” says Applegate. Courtesy of ARAcontent

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"How many charming talents have been spoiled by the instilled desire to do 'important' work! Some people are born to lift heavy weights. Some are born to juggle with golden balls. "

- Max Beerbohm

Dear Flabby,
What exactly is a free radical and why are antioxidants supposed to stop them?

Lincoln S. . - Ottawa, ON

Dear Lincoln,
Wow, you're making me work for this one, had to talk to my science peeps: Basically a free radical is a molecule with an unpaired electron. This makes it especially reactive to other molecules, which can impair cell functioning. Free radicals do occur normally, and with medications and pollutants. To the rescue ride antioxidants: they interact with and stabilize free radicals. Sources include fruits and vegetables, so eat your greens!

( send your question to Dear Flabby: info@prosnack.com )

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