Exercise has long been associated with numerous health benefits, but a new study from the University of Michigan sheds light on how regular physical activity can impact the way our bodies store fat. According to the research team, individuals with obesity who exercise regularly have healthier belly fat tissue and are able to store fat more effectively compared to those who do not exercise.
The study involved comparing two groups of adults with obesity: one group consisted of individuals who reported regularly exercising at least four times a week for an average of 11 years, while the other group included non-exercisers who were matched in terms of body fat mass, weight, and sex. Samples of belly fat tissue were collected from both groups to analyze the structural and biological characteristics.
The findings revealed that the exercisers had distinct features in their fat tissue, including increased blood vessels, mitochondria, and beneficial proteins, as well as lower levels of collagen and inflammation-causing cells. These differences indicate that regular exercise can enhance the capacity of fat tissue to store fat, particularly in the subcutaneous adipose tissue just under the skin.
Storing fat in the subcutaneous adipose tissue is considered healthier than storing it around organs or within organs themselves, as excess fat in these areas can lead to various health issues, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. This condition, which is prevalent in individuals with obesity, can result in serious complications like cirrhosis and cancer.
Lead investigator Jeffrey Horowitz emphasized the importance of long-term studies to observe how exercise influences fat tissue over time. The team aims to further investigate whether fat tissue from exercisers and non-exercisers functions differently, and if there are other health-related disparities that may impact overall well-being.
While increasing the capacity to store fat does not equate to gaining fat, it does play a crucial role in how excess fat is distributed throughout the body. For individuals who may experience weight gain, having the ability to store fat more effectively in the subcutaneous tissue can mitigate the risks associated with visceral fat accumulation.
Moving forward, researchers will delve deeper into the cellular mechanisms behind the observed differences in fat tissue and explore the potential impact of different types or intensities of exercise on modifying fat storage. By understanding how exercise influences fat tissue at a molecular level, we can potentially improve strategies for preventing obesity-related diseases and enhancing overall health.
